The below vintage photographs from the late 19th Century and early 20th Century, show an India, that in many places outside the metro areas, is even now not that unfamiliar.
Right Click on photographs to view enlarged versions:
Four Ascetics 1862
Bullock Cart Outside Hut 1863
Vegetable and Fruit Vendor (date unknown)
Rural People Outside Huts, 1870
Five Women Dressed with Jewellery, 1870
Village Well, 1900