Why are the states not divided on the basis of the physiologic divisions of india?what would have happened if it was so?
Answers
I, with due respect, differ with the point of views expressed in other answers. The decision to divide the country on linguistic basis was always confronted by political forces since independence. It was because of this man that such divisions started with the creation of separate state called Andhra Pradesh for Telugu speaking people.
As a whole, I see the benefits have been larger than the costs (obviously there are costs).
Language forms an inherently integral portion of a culture. When you snatch somebody's language, you rob him/her of her culture. This is exactly what has been the biggest benefit of creation of states on linguistic lines.
Some of the conspicuous benefits are:
1) Cultural development: We have flourishing regional film industries (Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam) not to forget the millions they employ. The regional arts and crafts are just amazing.
2) Social affinity: The similar language speaking people are more likely to feel affable towards people speaking their language. This develops belongingness and self dignity among people.
3) Administrative convenience: It becomes easier for government to rule culturally homogeneous set of people than governing diverse lots.
I am not sure whether regionalism would have been absent without creation of states on linguistic lines. The politicians would
always find the avenues (religion, caste, class, in this case region) to build/attract voting blocs. Instead according to me regionalism doesn't necessarily carry a negative connotation. It also translates into greater love and belongingness to your region and culture and therefore greater development of regional cultures.