Introduction
Hinduism
is the oldest major religion today with a following of nearly a
billion people.It had no single founder and managed to grow for over
4000 years in syncretism with other religions. It is also called the
Sanatan Dharama (Eternal Religion)
History
Hinduism originated as a synthesis of the religion brought by the
Aryans and the indigenous religion (c.1500 BC).Historians can trace
its origin to 2200 BCE, when the Indo-European tribes invaded N. India
and brought their 'Vedic' religion along,which later mingled with
native Indian culture, " Indus Valley Culture".
Basic Hindu Philosophy
Central doctrine of Hinduism is reincarnation (transmigration of the
soul), or continuing cycle of birth and rebirth called Samsara.
Accumulated sum of ones deeds called Karma determines next life.
Four goals of Hindu life are kama, artha, dharma and moksha. Humans
seek kama (emotional or physical pleasures) and artha (power) but can
only harmonise it in a higher, framework of dharma. Hinduism is a
Henotheistic religion which chiefly recognises a single diety but also
recognises other gods and goddesses as a manifestation of the Supreme
God. Sacred primary texts of the Hindus are the Holy Bhagvad
Gita,Mahabharata & Ramayana, and the four Vedas which describes basic
Hindu philosophy.
Hinduism : Practice
Hinduism is not only an intellectual breed of philosophy but also an
approach or a way of living in this universe. Therefore, Hindu
religion is more than a matter of practice than believe for many
Hindus.
Singnificance of Hindu Festivals
Though Hinduism is full of festivals and fasts, all events, major or
minor have a deep meaning attached. Traditionally, Hindu festivals are
also celebrated and observed in diverse modes reflecting the very
richness of its culture. Major Hindu festivals include Maha Shiva
Ratri, Holi, Dussehra, Rama Navami, Raksha Bandhana, Janmashtami,
Navaratri, Diwali/ Lakshmi Puja etc. and various other numerous
festivals.
