Hinduism is the dominant religion, or way of life,of the Indian subcontinent, and consists of many diverse traditions.and a wide spectrum of laws and prescriptions of "daily morality" based on karma, dharma, and societal norms. Hinduism is a categorisation of distinct intellectual or philosophical points of view, rather than a rigid, common set of beliefs.

Since the 19th century, under the dominance of western colonialism when the term "Hinduism" came into broad use,Hinduism has re-asserted itself as a coherent and independent tradition.During 20th century, a part of the Hindu politics emerged as a political force and a source for national identity in India.

Hinduism, with about one billion followers is the world's third largest religion, after Christianity and Islam.

HINDU PRACTICES

• puja (worship)
• recitations
• occasional pilgrimages
• Annual festivals

Pūjā is a prayer ritual performed by Hindus to host, honour and worship one or more deities, or to spiritually celebrate an event.Sometimes spelled phonetically as pooja or poojah, it may honour or celebrate the presence of special guest(s), or their memories after they pass away. The word pūjā comes from Sanskrit, and means reverence, honour, homage, adoration, and worship.Puja rituals are also held by Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs.

Annual festivals - a festival may be observed with acts of worship, offerings to deities, fasting, feasting, vigil, rituals, fairs, charity,or celebrations.

SYMBOLS

• Aum
• Tilak
• Bindi
• Linga
• The lotus flower (etc.)

Aum-Also spelled "Om," Hindus thought this symbol represented a sacred.

Talik-Like a bindi, a tilak is a mark on the forehead.

Bindi-The "dot" on the forehead of the woman pictured to the left is called a bindi. It is worn by married women.

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