The Roma people, also known as Romani or Romanies, are an Indo-Aryan ethnic group who traditionally lived a nomadic, itinerant lifestyle. They originated from northern India, particularly from the Punjab, Rajasthan, and Sindh regions, migrating out of India about 1,000 to 1,500 years ago into Europe by way of the Middle East. The Roma are Europe's largest ethnic minority and are widely dispersed, with significant populations in countries like Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia, and others. Romani culture is rich and diverse, influenced by their historical migrations and the various empires they lived under, including the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Their language, Romani, is part of the Indo-Aryan language family and contains many dialects with influences from Persian, Armenian, Greek, and Slavic languages. Despite their diversity, the Roma share common cultural traits, including a history of traditional occupations such as artisans, musicians, blacksmiths, and entertainers. Historically, the Roma have faced discrimination, marginalization, and persecution in many societies, often living on the edges of mainstream society. Their nomadic lifestyle and unique cultural practices have contributed to stereotypes and challenges, but they also have a resilient identity centered on freedom and community. The term "Gypsies" is a common English exonym for the Roma, though some find it derogatory. The name "Roma" itself means "man" in their language and is used to denote the various sub- groups within the broader Romani people. In modern times, while many Roma have settled and adopted more sedentary lifestyles, they continue to maintain their distinct cultural identity and face social challenges related to inclusion, education, health, and employment.