Categories: Education

When and how Bharat transformed into India?

The name "Bharat" has ancient roots and has been used in Indian scriptures and texts for centuries to refer to the Indian subcontinent.

The transition from “Bharat” to “India” as the commonly used name for the country has a complex history, shaped by various factors including linguistic diversity, colonialism, and political changes.

Historical Usage of Bharat

The name “Bharat” has ancient roots and has been used in Indian scriptures and texts for centuries to refer to the Indian subcontinent. It was associated with the legendary emperor Bharata mentioned in Hindu epics like the Mahabharata.

Colonial Influence

During British colonial rule (approximately 1757-1947), the British referred to the Indian subcontinent as “India.” This term was derived from the river Indus, which marked the western boundary of British India. The British colonial administration used “India” as the official name.

Independence and the Constitution

When India gained independence from British rule in 1947, it faced the question of what name to adopt as the official name for the newly formed nation. The framers of the Indian Constitution deliberated on this matter.
Given India’s linguistic and cultural diversity, it was decided to use both “Bharat” and “India” in the Constitution.
Article 1 of the Indian Constitution states, “India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States.” This compromise acknowledged the historical and cultural significance of both names.
Over the years, “India” became the more commonly used name, especially in international contexts where it was more easily recognized. “Bharat” continued to be used in Hindi and other Indian languages.
Hindi and English were designated as the official languages of India, with Hindi being the official language of the Indian government. This further contributed to the continued use of “Bharat” alongside “India.”
Bharat” remains an important part of India’s cultural and linguistic identity. It is used in literature, poetry, and various cultural expressions to evoke a sense of heritage and tradition.
Eduvast Desk

Recent Posts

Federal Student Loan Changes 2025: New Borrowing Limits Affect Graduate Students

A new federal law ends unlimited Grad PLUS loans for graduate students. Borrowing caps of…

3 days ago

SSA Adds 13 New Conditions to Fast-Track Social Security Disability Benefits

The Social Security Administration added 13 new serious medical conditions to its Compassionate Allowances List.…

3 days ago

California Climate Credit 2025: Families Can Save Over $500 Automatically on Utility Bills

California’s Climate Credit gives households an automatic discount on utility bills. Most families in California…

4 days ago

Trump’s New Baby Stimulus: $1,000 At Birth Can Grow Up To $93,000 By Retirement

President Trump’s new law gives $1,000 to every baby born in the U.S. between 2025-2028.…

4 days ago

New York Summer EBT Funds Running Out: Spend Before October 17, 2025

Millions of families in New York must spend their Summer EBT benefits before October 17,…

4 days ago

Veterans Affairs and Government Shutdown: Full List of Services Open and Closed for Veterans

The government shutdown has forced furloughs at the VA, but essential services like medical care,…

4 days ago