Charvaka, also known as Lokayata, is a philosophical school of thought that originated in ancient India. It is characterized by its materialistic and skeptical approach towards the supernatural and religious beliefs. The Charvaka school of thought was prominent during the 6th century BCE to the 12th century CE, but it gradually declined due to the rise of other philosophical schools and religious beliefs.

Today, Charvaka is not actively practiced as a distinct school of thought. However, its influence can still be seen in modern Indian society. The core principles of Charvaka, such as materialism and skepticism, have been incorporated into various aspects of Indian culture, including literature, art, and politics.

In contemporary India, there are still individuals who adhere to the principles of Charvaka. These individuals reject the idea of a higher power and believe in living a hedonistic lifestyle, focusing on pleasure and enjoyment in the present moment rather than seeking spiritual enlightenment or afterlife. They also reject the concept of karma and reincarnation, which are central beliefs in Hinduism and Buddhism.

Furthermore, the concept of materialism, which is a key aspect of Charvaka, can be seen in the growing consumer culture in India. The pursuit of material possessions and wealth is often prioritized over spiritual or religious pursuits. This can be attributed to the influence of Charvaka's emphasis on living a comfortable and pleasurable life in the present rather than focusing on the afterlife.

Additionally, the skeptical approach towards the supernatural and religious beliefs can also be seen in the rise of atheism and agnosticism in India. With the spread of education and scientific knowledge, more and more people are questioning traditional religious beliefs and turning towards a more rational and logical approach to understanding the world. This is in line with Charvaka's rejection of blind faith and emphasis on empirical evidence.

In conclusion, while Charvaka is not actively practiced as a distinct school of thought today, its influence can still be felt in modern Indian society. Its principles of materialism and skepticism continue to shape the way individuals think and approach life. However, it is important to note that Charvaka is just one of the many philosophical schools of thought in India and does not represent the beliefs of the entire population.