The impact of three ancient indigenous religions – Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism are significant especially up to the end of the Later Vedic period. The Vedic period is usually divided into – Early Vedic Period (c.1500 BCE to c.1000 BCE) and the Later Vedic Period (c.1000 BCE to c.500 BCE).

For Hindus, the Puranas and Dharmashastras laid out a Code of Conduct based on the Law of Karma (Action) rebirth, until it can attain moksha (salvation). The four aims of Hindu life (Purusharthas) are:

• Dharma 
• Kama 
• Artha 
• Moksha

Jainism is said to have been revealed by 24 Tirthankaras of which Vardhaman Mahavir was the last. Similar to the Hindu Doctrine of Karma, Jain teachings are also based on the Theory of Karma. However, ahimsa (nonharming) and tapas (penance) are important and integral components of the Jain way of life. Buddha, with his teachings, advocated the middle path based on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

The Medieval Period (c. 650 CE – c. 1500 CE), saw several religions come to India from outside. These include Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and much later Zoroastrianism. The Sangham Period (6th century BCE to 3rd century CE) is the period of the history of ancient peninsular India.

The roots of Zoroastrianism are found in the Middle East region. People of the Jewish faith are believed to be one of the early foreign religions to come to India. It is in the 1st century CE that Saint Thomas, an Apostle of Jesus Christ, brought Christianity to the shores of Malabar in South India the essential foundation of the Christian faith is the principle of love and all Christians believe in the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, their Saviour.

Islam first came to India in the 8th century CE, the impact and influence of the religion is seen only much later. Like Judaism and Christianity, Islam also preaches monotheism, and the faith centers on the Holy Quran. Muslims believe in the Five Pillars of Faith.

Sikhism emerged in the late 15th century CE and was founded by Guru Nanak (1469 CE – 1539 CE). Like Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, Sikhism too preached the Karma theory.

The Bhakti Movement emerged with the need to bring religious reform in Hinduism during the medieval period.