Final answer:
Hinduism and Buddhism were fundamental in keeping India unified after the Gupta Empire fell. Their broad and continuing influence preserved the shared cultural values that underpinned societal cohesion even through political fragmentation.
Step-by-step explanation:
One continuity that played a key role in keeping India unified after the fall of the Gupta Empire was the enduring strength and influence of Hinduism and Buddhism, along with the intertwined art and learning that these religions inspired. Despite the fragmentation of the Indian subcontinent into smaller states, these twin pillars of Indian culture, deeply rooted in the societal fabric and shared practices, ensured the flow of a common cultural currency across regions.
The Gupta era, with its considerable emphasis on classical literature, the Mahabharata, Ramayana, and profound developments in the sciences, particularly in mathematics with the invention of the number zero, laid the groundwork for a shared intellectual and spiritual landscape that outlasted the political unity of the empire.
The classical Sanskrit texts glorified ideals such as duty and valor, which continued to be reference points across the Indian subcontinent. Additionally, the caste system contributed to societal cohesion in the context of local autonomy. These shared cultural touchstones allowed for the diversity of practice within Hinduism and Buddhism to adapt to local traditions while maintaining overarching philosophic and religious unities. Even as Southeast Asian societies diverged, the Indian international system sustained its cultural coherence through these shared practices and beliefs.
Historical narratives and perceptions have evolved over time, and the modern notion of Hindutva emphasizes a more homogenized version of Hinduism. However, historical continuity showcases Hinduism's varied interactions and the inclusion of various traditions, reinforcing its persuasive and unifying nature in the Indian subcontinent and beyond.