India is a blend of diverse cultures and religions that have continuously influenced Indian mythology. Mythology, here is one of the most intriguing and world's most interesting, as it unveils an amazing plethora of mythical stories, that astounds the imagination. With richness and complexity as old as the early Indus Valley civilizations of Harappa and Mohenjodaro, which were established around 2400 BC. The Hindus continue to believe in the multitude of gods and goddesses of the Hindu pantheon.

     India unveils a kaleidoscope of various cultures and religions with substantial influence on the early writings, including Indian mythology. Prominent among these was the Hindu religion, they belive that the Universe was a single entity and called it Brahmin. This soon came to be equated with a masculine form of God, named Brahma, the creator of the Universe, later jioned by Vishnu- the protector, and Shiva- the destroyer to form the Trinity. The Vedic age, which belongs to the period of the Harappan and Mohenjodaro civilizations, established around 2400 BC, has given an entire body of literature to the world. The hymns sung then were collectively called the Vedas. The Vedic Age is when Hinduism actually began. The Vedic Gods were led by India. They got their strength from the drink- Soma, a form of ambrosia.

    The idea of atma, the soul, is an integral part of Hinduism, and the transmigration of the soul, a fundamental concept. Sacrifice and performing penance became the chief forms of worship. Certain concepts of the Hindu Indian mythology are extremely interesting and unique. For example performing a penance included years of deep meditation, in a state of isolation from the world.

    As a result or reward for this penance, a God, usually one from the trinity, would appear and grant a Boon. This was usually in the form of some power in the form of protection against certain creatures, or limited power of immortality etc. Similarly curses too were cast when the rishis or Gods flew into a rage. But in many instances these curses had antidotes, which was usually related to some specific incident in the person's future.

    A common part of Indian mythology, Wars, between the Asuras (demons) and the Devas (Gods) were often fought. The Asuras wanted to conquer the territory of the Devas. Many interesting stories are woven around this theme.

    The classical period gave birth two of the most amazing Epics in the history of the world- the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. These great works were compiled into their present form during thin time, but their origins go back at least to Vedic times. The Puranas were also composed at this time.

    From 500 BC to about 100 AD, the age of Buddhism and Jainism put Hinduism in decline. Buddha's doctrine took India by storm. Hinduism, however, was able to survive the storm by renewing itself. Sacrifice went out of favor and the influence of Jainism and Buddhism led to the composition of the Upanishads. It was also during this time that Vishnu and Shiva completed their eclipse of India and the other Vedic gods.