Age of the Brahmanas or Rituals: During the period of Brahmanas, the `Aryans' moved Eastward from Indus Valley and established in the Gangetic plains and began to penetrate into the Bengal and Deccan plains. Kurus and Panchalas are the prominent tribes. The religious practice consisted of elaborate and complex ritualism requiring special class of priests. Vishnu and Rudra become the important Deities and worshipped. The Veda was divided into 'Rig', 'Yajur' and 'Sama'. The idea of four Ashramas and explanations of four Varnas were seen in the later portions of Rig Veda. The Vedangas or accessory to study of Veda began at this time. Elaborate ritualistic treatises called Brahmanas were produced. Later, Atharva Veda, with collection of charms and spells, was recognised as the fourth Veda. Progress in knowledge of several metals and exact science and national arts arises from the building of sacrificial altars. Sages Aithareya, Shandilya and Pippilada are known in this period.

Age of the Upanishads and Knowledge: During the period of Upanishads, all of Northern India was said to have been well popularized with the Vedic thoughts or said to be "Aryanized." Slowly, the Vedic teachings and practice began moving South and merged with the so called "Dravidian" cultures there. Overland and maritime trades with Persia, Egypt and Greece were carried on. The highest truths and philosophy of Hinduism were discovered and taught. The Upanishads emerge out of the quest of the time as the principal Hindu Philosophy. Ramayana and Mahabharatha belongs to this period and Bhagvat Gita becomes the essence of Upanishadic teachings. The beginning of Buddhism and Jainism is seen in this period. The Brahmi Script of forty-six letters was developed. Stone cuttings, stone polishing and bead making are seen in this period. Statues and coins of Kings of Magadha and Shunga Dynasty were seen. Sages Janaka, Yajnavalkya, Agasthya, Kapila, Sanathkumara, Valmiki, Vyasa, Mahavira and Gouthama Buddha belong to this period.