Those who have lived all their lives in a city may find it hard to imagine life in a small village. Yet, the majority of Indians still live in villages. There are more than five hundred thousand villages in India. No wonder it is often said: India lives in its villages.

A typical Indian village is a small, peaceful settlement with a close-knit population. Many villagers live in simple houses made of clay or bricks, sometimes thatched with straw or tin. The walls and floors are often plastered with cow-dung for cleanliness and insulation. Though modest, these homes are generally neat and functional, but they may lack proper ventilation or modern amenities.

Villages usually do not have proper streets, only winding narrow pathways that may become muddy in rains. Drainage systems are often basic and water can sometimes collect in low areas.

The village well remains the center of daily life. Villagers come here to draw water, wash clothes and socialize. The sight of young women walking in a line with bright pots balanced on their heads is a beautiful and timeless scene every morning.

On the outskirts, you may find the garbage dump, which can become a breeding ground for diseases. Despite these challenges, villagers are generally simple, hardworking and spiritual. Daily life often revolves around the village temple, where people go to offer prayers, listen to recitals from the Ramayana or Mahabharata, or receive blessings. The temple truly reflects the heartbeat of the village.

Most villagers are farmers or laborers. There may be a single landlord or zamindar and many people work on his land in some capacity. Other villagers include the grocer, who provides daily essentials and sometimes loans; the carpenter, blacksmith, cobbler and barber, who meet the village’s practical needs. For shopping, medical care, or official work, villagers usually visit the nearest town.

At night, villages may still appear quiet and dark, as electricity may not be fully available everywhere. Oil lamps or solar lights are often used for illumination.

A typical Indian village seems calm and timeless, contrasting sharply with the fast pace of modern cities. In many ways, it reflects India’s traditional values and lifestyle. However, this picture is changing quickly, as many villages now have access to electricity, mobile networks, schools and modern facilities. The old and new coexist, showing India’s journey toward progress while keeping its roots alive.