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The belief system called "Vedic religion" is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of South Asia. Vedic religion is generally recognized as the historical predecessor to modern Hinduism, as it embraces core traditions originating in the Indian subcontinent. It dates back to the period of the Vedas, sophisticated religious texts written in Sanskrit, around 1500 BCE according to Oxford University.

Incredibly varied are the Vedic practices, which often weave ancient indigenous traditions with the Sanskrit language and rituals described in sacred texts. Their culture was also influenced by the Persian civilizations owing to the Aryan invasion around 1500 BCE. This blend of cultures is particularly notable in the North-Western regions of India.

Today, the influence of the Vedic religion can still be seen and felt. An exemplary case being the festival of Deepavali, or Diwali, a festival signifying the victory of light over darkness, or good over evil. This celebration traces its origin back to ancient Vedic traditions but has evolved and spread dramatically in recent times. People who immigrated from India to other parts of the world carried the festival with them, and by the 20th century, multicultural societies like the United States and United Kingdom began showcasing the festival as a way of celebrating their multicultural diversity, according to the Smithsonian. The festival is now globally recognized and celebrated in November.