Definition & Meaning of "Indo-Aryan languages"

What are "Indo-Aryan languages"?

Indo-Aryan languages are a branch of the Indo-Iranian group within the Indo-European language family, primarily spoken in the Indian subcontinent. Major Indo-Aryan languages include Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi, Urdu, Marathi, Gujarati, and Sanskrit. These languages share a common origin in Sanskrit and exhibit similarities in grammar, vocabulary, and phonetics. Indo-Aryan languages typically feature a rich system of inflection and a complex verbal system. They have evolved over time, influenced by historical, cultural, and regional factors, leading to a wide variety of dialects and forms. The study of Indo-Aryan languages provides insights into the linguistic diversity, cultural heritage, and historical developments of the peoples in South Asia.