Dravians

Dravians are a group of peoples primarily inhabiting the southern regions of India, known as the Dravidian countries. They are characterized by their distinct Dravidian languages, which form an independent language family unrelated to the Indo-Aryan languages spoken in northern India. The major Dravidian languages include Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, each with its own rich literary and cultural heritage.

Historically, the Dravidian people are believed to be indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, with some theories suggesting their origins predate the arrival of Indo-Aryan speakers. They have contributed significantly to various aspects of Indian culture, including philosophy, art, architecture, and cuisine. Ancient Dravidian civilizations, such as the Indus Valley Civilization (though its exact linguistic affiliation is debated), are often linked to their historical presence.

The Dravidian cultural sphere is diverse, encompassing a wide range of traditions, religious practices, and social customs that have evolved over millennia. While Hinduism is prevalent among Dravidian populations, there are also significant Christian and Muslim communities, reflecting the region's historical interactions and influences. The geographical distribution of Dravidian speakers is concentrated in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala, as well as parts of Sri Lanka and the union territory of Puducherry.