Republic of India is a phrase that is often used to refer to the South Asian nation that gained independence from British rule in 1947. It is a country known for its diversity in culture, religion and language. There are several synonyms for India that are commonly used such as Bharat, Hindustan, and the Land of Gandhi. Bharat and Hindustan both have historical significance and were used to describe the subcontinent before the British arrived. India is sometimes referred to as the Jewel of the East, thanks to its rich cultural heritage which includes intricate art forms such as dance, music, and textiles.