What are some facts about India that Indians are generally unaware of?

Here are some fascinating and lesser-known facts about India that many Indians might not be aware of:

Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya

In the forests of Meghalaya, there are living root bridges, which are natural formations created by the roots of rubber trees. These roots, which are firm yet flexible, wrap around bamboo trees to form these unique bridges1.

Village Without Locks and Doors

The village of Shani Shingnapur in Maharashtra is notable for its houses having no doors or locks. For over 400 years, there have been no reported criminal cases, attributing this to the strong bond and trust among the neighbors1.

World's Largest Sundial

Located in Jaipur, the Jantar Mantar houses the world's largest sundial, which is 90 feet tall and made of beautifully polished stone. This sundial is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site1.

Protection of the Taj Mahal During WWII

During World War II, the Taj Mahal was covered with bamboo scaffolds to disguise it from potential bombing, thus protecting this architectural wonder1.

Kumbh Mela Visibility from Space

The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest human gatherings, is so massive that it can be seen from space. This festival is a significant cultural and religious event in India1.

Floating Park in Manipur

The Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur is the world's only floating park, located on Loktak Lake. It is also home to the endangered brow-antlered deer1.

Historical Dynasties

• The Satavahana Dynasty, which ruled the Deccan region from the 2nd century BCE to the 3rd century CE, is often overshadowed by other dynasties but made significant contributions to trade, art, and culture2.
• The Kushan Empire, which extended into the Indian subcontinent during the 1st and 2nd centuries CE, played a crucial role in trade and cultural exchange along the Silk Road2.
• The Pallavas, a South Indian dynasty that ruled from the 3rd to the 9th centuries CE, are known for their architectural marvels like the Shore Temple in Mamallapuram2.

Ancient Achievements

• India was the first country to mine diamonds, with the Krishna River Delta in Andhra Pradesh being a major source from the 4th century BC3.
• The game of chess was invented in India, and Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhatta was the first to invent a symbol for zero34.

Unique Geographical Features

• The world's highest motorable road is located in Ladakh, built at a height of 19,300 feet4.
• The highest cricket ground in the world is located in Chail, Himachal Pradesh4.
• The Dal Lake in Kashmir has the world's only floating post office4.

Cultural and Scientific Contributions

• India is home to 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including 32 cultural, 7 natural, and 1 mixed property4.
• The practice of yoga originated in India thousands of years ago4.
• India is the world's largest producer, consumer, and exporter of spices, with around 70% of the world's spices coming from India4.

Unsolved Mysteries

• The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the oldest and most mysterious civilizations, abruptly collapsed and vanished, leaving behind an undeciphered script and unanswered questions about its demise5.
• The Son Bhandar Caves in Bihar, believed to be the entrance to the wealth of the Magadhan monarch Bimbisara, remain a mystery with unreadable Sankhlipi writing that could hold the key to unlocking the cave5.