The Ancient Indo-Iranians were a group of people who lived in the region that is now Iran and parts of India around 1500 BCE. They are known for their contributions to early languages, including Sanskrit and Avestan, which are important for understanding the cultures and religions of the time. This group is believed to have migrated from the Pontic-Caspian steppe and played a significant role in the development of the Indo-European language family. These ancient peoples are often divided into two main branches: the Indo-Aryans, who settled in the Indian subcontinent, and the Iranian peoples, who remained in the Iranian plateau. They shared similar cultural practices, including religious beliefs that later influenced major religions like Hinduism and Zoroastrianism. Their legacy continues to impact modern cultures in both India and Iran.