Hinduism native to India relates to a wide array of religious traditions and customs.  How did it originate?

The origins of this ancient religion is unknown, however historians believe Hinduism emerged from the traditions of Iron Age as a revival of Vedic traditions, and preached its philosophy under six branches - Samkhya, Nyaya, Yoga, Vaisheshika, Vedanta and Mimamsa. With appearance of Bharatiya Janata Party in politics, 1980s, Hinduism further strengthened its roots in 20^th century India.

History of Hinduism

With the discovery of several artifacts including figurines and seals, and monumental baths during the excavation of Mohenjo-daro, Hinduism has been a prehistoric religion in India, 1500 years ago.

With the gradual decline of Buddhism between 2nd century BC and 6th century AD, Vedic traditions gained momentum. Consequently, Hinduism emerged into six prominent branches - Samkhya, Nyaya, Yoga, Vaisheshika, Vedanta and Mimamsa.

During Middle Ages with the decline of non-Vedantic schools of philosophy and reconciliation of major sects- Vaishna and Shaiva, Classical Pauranic Hinduism emerged.

Under the Islamic Rulers, Hinduism gained eminence with Bhakti movement. Several Hindu reforms occurred during British Raj. With the Partition of India in 1947, Republic of India evolved with a Hindu majority. Today, 900 million people practise this third largest religion worldwide.

Gods

Hinduism being a polytheistic religion has several thousand gods. The chief gods include Brahma- the creator, Vishnu- the protector and Shiva –the destroyer.

The ancient Vedas describe several deities who are personified forces of nature and referred as Vedic Gods.

Worship and devotion involves offerings made and rituals performed before these deities.

Rites & Rituals

Even though Hinduism believes in idol worship, yet philosophically oriented individuals ignore gods and seek Realization of the Self through meditation (Yoga). Both approaches are regarded equal, which leads them to paths of karma (works and action), dharma (knowledge), reincarnation (birth and re-birth) and moksha (liberation from bondage of reincarnation).

Hinduism believes accumulation of merits via truthfulness, compassion, non-violence, friendship, self-control, purity, fortitude and generosity would reduce sufferings in the next world, and help them attain moksha.

Ganga Jal (holy water) is used to neutralize the impurity within self before progressing towards a religious ceremony. Vegetarianism is another way to avoid impurity and demarcate the pure from impure.  People who strictly adhere to these rituals gain increased respect.

With the recitation of texts, preparation of sacred space and manoeuvring of objects sacrifice is an integral part of Hinduism.

Festivals

Hindu festivals and religious celebrations occur round the year. The prominent occasions include Holi, Diwali, Dusshera (Durga Puja in West Bengal), Raksha Bandhan and Rathyatra.

Holi is the festival of colours, when friends and family sprinkle Gulal (powdered colour) and play with coloured water. This festival celebrates universal goodwill, and dissolves barriers of discrimination. The religious significance of Holi relates to Thanksgiving for good harvest and the belief that people who love God saved while disbelievers burnt to ashes.

 Dusshera (Durga Puja) is a festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. It marks the defeat of demon king Ravana in the epic Ramayana. Huge effigy of Ravana burnt amidst the booming sounds of firecrackers.

Diwali is the festival of lights that commemorate the beginning of New Year according to Hindu calendar. For Hindu followers it is a joyous moment when Lord Ram returned to his kingdom and people celebrated his welcome by burning oil lamps and bursting crackers.

Raksha Bandhan celebrates the bond of brother –sister relationship.