The Indigenous Aryans theory posits that Indo-Aryan languages originated in the Indian subcontinent, challenging the mainstream Indo-Aryan migration theory which claims their arrival from the Pontic steppe. This alternative perspective ties India's ancient history and cultural identity to indigenous origins, arguing against colonial interpretations that suggest a racial division. The debate encompasses linguistic, archaeological, and historical arguments, with proponents asserting that Indian civilization represents an unbroken tradition, intertwined with political and nationalistic sentiments.