bahrainthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 INDIA IN BAHRAIN 38 Zero changed mathematics forever Ancient Indian mathematicians developed the concept of zero as a number, laying the foundations for modern mathematics, computing and every digital technology we rely on today. 2. Chess began in India The modern game of chess evolved from chaturanga, a strategic board game played in ancient India before spreading across Persia and eventually Europe. One of the world’s first great cities The Indus Valley Civilisation built remarkably advanced cities more than 4,000 years ago, complete with planned streets, sophisticated drainage systems and public baths. India is often associated with Bollywood, cricket and colourful festivals, but there is far more to the world’s most populous nation than familiar stereotypes. From ancient discoveries that changed the course of history to modern achievements in technology, conservation and space exploration, these 25 facts reveal another side of India. Things You May Not Know About India 4. A UNESCO treasure trove India is home to 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the Taj Mahal and Jaipur’s Pink City to Kaziranga National Park and the Western Ghats, placing it among the world’s leading countries for recognised cultural and natural heritage. 5. Surgery centuries ahead of its time The physician Sushruta documented hundreds of surgical procedures and medical instruments in the Sushruta Samhita, earning recognition as one of the pioneers of surgery. 6. The tiger’s global stronghold Around 70% of the world’s wild tigers live in India. Decades of conservation have helped protect the endangered species across more than 50 tiger reserves. One of the planet’s most biodiverse countries India is one of just 17 megadiverse countries. Its landscapes range from Himalayan peaks and deserts to tropical rainforests and coral reefs, supporting an extraordinary variety of plant and animal life. Home to the world’s largest mangrove forest The Sundarbans, shared with Bangladesh, is home to the iconic Royal Bengal tiger as well as crocodiles, dolphins and hundreds of bird species. The wettest inhabited place on Earth Mawsynram, in the north-eastern state of Meghalaya, is widely recognised as the wettest inhabited place in the world. The world’s highest railway bridge The Chenab Rail Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir rises 359 metres above the river below, making it the world’s highest railway bridge and a remarkable feat of engineering. 1. 3. 7. 9. 8. 10.
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