Regions as Cultural Units Rather than States in India
Introduction
India’s diversity is not strictly defined by political boundaries (states) but by regional cultural units shaped by history, language, traditions, and ecology. These cultural units often transcend state borders and reflect shared identities.
1. Linguistic and Ethnic Continuity Beyond State Borders
- Bundelkhand Region → Shared culture across Madhya Pradesh & Uttar Pradesh (Bundeli language, folklore, and traditions).
- Bhojpuri Belt → Extends across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand with common linguistic and cultural practices.
2. Geographic and Historical Identity Overlapping States
- Malwa Region → Spans across Madhya Pradesh & Rajasthan with a distinct dialect and Rajput-Malwa warrior traditions.
- Vidarbha Region → Culturally distinct from Maharashtra but shares history and traditions with Chhattisgarh.
3. Religious and Pilgrimage Traditions Binding Regions
- Vaishnavism in Eastern India → Bengal, Odisha, and Assam share Jagannath culture, transcending state boundaries.
- Shaivism in Southern India → Tamil Nadu and Karnataka share Shaivite traditions and temple architecture.
4. Culinary and Artistic Similarities Across Regions
- North-East Tribal Culture → Similar food, dance, and customs in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Assam.
- Rajasthani & Gujarati Culture → Common folk music, attire, and cuisine despite different statehoods.
Conclusion
Indian diversity is best understood through cultural regions rather than political states. These units reflect historical, linguistic, and traditional continuities, highlighting the civilizational unity beyond modern state boundaries.
