Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world, and its origins can be traced back to the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which existed around 3300–1300 BCE in what is now present-day Pakistan and northwest India. The early roots of Hinduism are diverse, and the religion gradually evolved over thousands of years through cultural, philosophical, and religious developments.

Hindu religion is the prevalent religion in most parts of South Asia and indeed, the third largest religion after Islam and Christianity. The faith has more than a billion followers, but a billion of such followers are said to be residing in India.

There are currently many versions of Hindu (with a significant number of deities), but despite the dynamism, Hinduism can still not be traced to one single follower. This factor makes the Hindu religion a unique faith.

Here are key points about the early beginnings and development of Hinduism:

1. Indus Valley Civilization (3300–1300 BCE): The earliest precursor to Hinduism is often associated with the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan civilization. Archaeological findings from this period suggest a complex urban society with a system of writing (yet to be fully deciphered), planned cities, and evidence of religious practices. While the exact religious beliefs of the Harappan people are not fully understood, some artifacts suggest symbols and practices that bear similarities to later Hindu traditions.
2. Vedic Period (1500–500 BCE): The transition from the Indus Valley Civilization to the Vedic period marked a significant phase in the development of Hinduism. The sacred texts known as the Vedas were composed during this time. The Rigveda, the oldest of the four Vedas, contains hymns dedicated to various deities, and rituals and sacrifices played a central role in religious practices. The Vedic period also saw the emergence of early Brahmanical traditions.
3. Upanishadic Period (800–200 BCE): The Upanishads, philosophical texts that explore the nature of reality and the self, were composed during this period. The Upanishads emphasized meditation, introspection, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. Concepts such as Brahman (the ultimate reality) and Atman (the individual self) were introduced, laying the groundwork for later Hindu philosophical developments.
4. Epics and Puranas (500 BCE–500 CE): The two great epics, the Mahabharat and the Ramayan, were composed during this period. The Bhagavad Gita, a revered scripture within the Mahabharat, is a central text in Hindu philosophy. Additionally, the Puranas, which contain mythological stories, genealogies of deities, and descriptions of religious rituals, were compiled during this time, contributing to the narrative richness of Hinduism.
5. Classical Period (200 BCE–500 CE): During this period, major Hindu philosophical schools, including Vedanta, Samkhya, Yoga, and Nyaya, emerged. The Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads influenced the development of these philosophical traditions. The Gupta Empire (c. 320–550 CE) is often considered a golden age of Hindu art, literature, and scholarship.
6. Temple Period (500–1500 CE): The construction of elaborate temples became prominent during this period. Bhakti (devotional) movements gained momentum, emphasizing a personal relationship with deities. Notable saints, poets, and philosophers, such as Shankara, Ramanuja, and Madhva, played crucial roles in shaping the devotional landscape of Hinduism.
7. Medieval and Early Modern Period (1500–1800 CE): This era saw the influence of Islamic and later European colonial powers on Indian culture. Bhakti movements continued to flourish, with saints like Kabir, Mirabai, and Tulsidas making significant contributions. The synthesis of diverse cultural and religious elements continued to shape Hinduism.
8. Modern Period (1800 CE–Present): The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed social and religious reform movements within Hinduism, responding to challenges posed by colonialism and social issues. Figures like Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi played pivotal roles in presenting Hinduism on a global stage. Today, Hinduism is a dynamic and diverse religion with millions of adherents worldwide.

Hinduism’s early beginnings involve a complex interplay of cultural, religious, and philosophical developments over thousands of years. Its adaptability and inclusiveness have allowed it to incorporate a vast array of beliefs, practices, and traditions, making it one of the most diverse and enduring religions in the world.