Hinduism is generally considered to be one of the world's oldest living major religions, with roots tracing back over 4,000 years. Its origins are complex and intertwined with ancient Indian cultures, notably the Indus Valley Civilization (circa 3300-1300 BCE) and the Vedic period beginning around 1500 BCE. Unlike many religions, Hinduism does not have a single founder or specific start date but evolved as a synthesis of various traditions, cultures, and religious practices over millennia. Some scholars and practitioners even view it as timeless or eternal, existing since the beginning of creation. Overall, Hinduism's age spans roughly 3,500 to over 5,000 years depending on the perspective and evidence referenced, with foundational texts like the Vedas dating back at least 3,500 years.