Prakrits are a group of ancient Indian languages that evolved from the Sanskrit language. They were spoken and written in various regions of India, primarily during the Maurya and Gupta periods. Prakrits are known for their simpler grammar and vocabulary compared to Sanskrit, making them more accessible to the common people. There are several types of Prakrits, including Pali, Ardhamagadhi, and Shauraseni. These languages played a significant role in the development of Buddhism and Jainism, as many religious texts were composed in Prakrits to reach a broader audience. Today, they are studied for their historical and linguistic significance.