Where did Hinduism originate?

Hinduism originated in India more than 5,000 years ago. It likely came from the northern part of the country, where the Indus River is located. Persians in the area referred to it as the Hindu River, and the name was also applied to the religion.

Hinduism is the oldest extant religion in the world, so many details of its origins have been lost. Although it was once believed to have been introduced to India by the Aryans, archaeologists now believe that is a myth started by early missionaries attempting to reconcile Christian beliefs with Hindu writings, especially the ancient Vedic texts.