In what ways has the term hindustan changed over the centuries?

The term "Hindustan" originally referred to the land of the Indus River, encompassing parts of present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Over the centuries, its meaning expanded to denote a cultural and geographical identity associated with North India, particularly during the Mughal era, when it came to symbolize the broader Indian subcontinent. In contemporary usage, "Hindustan" often signifies the Republic of India, reflecting both national identity and cultural heritage, while also being imbued with historical and political connotations. As such, its evolution illustrates shifts in territorial, cultural, and political perspectives throughout history.