South Asia is accessible but somewhat isolated (perhaps insulated is a better term) from the rest of Eurasia. As such, it was a large area that was largely self sufficient unto itself (though it certainly was a party to Indian ocean trade. This allowed it to develop its own customs and habits particular to and appropriate to its environment, with less cultural spillover than in areas more accessible and connected to other regions.
Of course, this insulation is far from complete- witness the significant influence of Islam on India's culture and history, and of the lasting effects of British rule.
mahh spongebob
ReplyDelete