Meaning: The quote "India conquered and dominated China culturally for 20 centuries without ever having to send a single soldier across her border" by Hu Shih, a prominent Chinese philosopher, sheds light on the profound cultural influence that India had on China over a long period of history. This quote encapsulates the idea that India's cultural impact on China was so significant that it effectively "conquered" China without the need for military conquest.

For nearly 2,000 years, India's cultural influence spread across Asia, and China was particularly receptive to Indian culture, philosophy, and religion. The transmission of Buddhism from India to China played a pivotal role in this cultural exchange. Buddhism, which originated in India, gradually spread to China, where it became deeply integrated into Chinese culture and religious practices. The teachings of Buddhism, along with other aspects of Indian culture such as art, literature, and philosophical ideas, profoundly shaped Chinese society.

The impact of Indian culture on China was not limited to religion and philosophy. It also extended to areas such as language, literature, medicine, and trade. Indian literature, including epics such as the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, found their way into Chinese literary traditions, influencing storytelling and narrative styles. Additionally, Indian medicinal practices, particularly Ayurveda, made their way to China, contributing to the development of traditional Chinese medicine.

The quote by Hu Shih also highlights the peaceful and non-military nature of India's cultural conquest of China. Unlike many historical instances of conquest and domination, India's influence on China was achieved through the exchange of ideas, trade, and peaceful interactions between the two civilizations. This serves as a testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange and the ability of ideas to transcend borders and shape the course of history.

The enduring impact of India's cultural influence on China can still be seen today. Elements of Indian philosophy and religious thought continue to resonate within Chinese society, and the historical connections between the two countries have left a lasting imprint on their respective cultures. The quote by Hu Shih serves as a reminder of the deep and enduring connections between India and China and the profound impact that cultural exchange can have on shaping the course of history.

In conclusion, the quote "India conquered and dominated China culturally for 20 centuries without ever having to send a single soldier across her border" by Hu Shih encapsulates the enduring and profound influence that Indian culture had on China over a span of 20 centuries. It highlights the peaceful and non-military nature of this cultural conquest and serves as a testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange and the ability of ideas to transcend borders and shape the course of history. The impact of Indian culture on China continues to be felt to this day, underscoring the lasting legacy of this cultural exchange.