Curiosities about religion in india

 

Hinduism continues to thrive in India today. Religion affects daily life and social interactions between people through the many Hindu-inspired festivals, artistic works, and temples. There is also an ongoing revival of the classic "epic" narratives of the Ramayana (Rama's Journey) and the Mahabharata (The Great Epic of the Bharata Dynasty).

 

It is common to find images of gods and goddesses in public and private spaces at all times of the year. The elephant-headed god, known as Ganesh, is particularly popular due to his alleged ability to remove obstacles.

 

 

As regards the social structure, an influential component of Hinduism affecting India is the large-scale caste system, known as the "varna" system. The varna caste system represented the Hindu ideal of how society should be structured: this form of organization classified society into four ideal categories: Brahmin (priestly caste), Kshatriya (warrior caste, royalty or nobility), Vaishya (caste of commoners or merchants) and shudra (caste of craftsmen or workers). It is a hereditary system in which people are believed to be born into a family of a specific caste.

 

 

Islam is the second most followed religion in India, influencing the society, culture, architecture, and art of the country. The Islamic community in India continues to play a considerable role in the development of the country. For example, the Muslim community has contributed to theological research and the establishment of religious facilities, institutes and universities.

 

 

Originally from India, Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that promotes devotion to a formless God. The religion centers on a principle of service, humility, and equality, and encourages its followers to try to help those less fortunate or in need.

 

 

The central doctrine of Buddhism, known as the "Four Noble Truths", teaches that one can free oneself from the suffering that sustains the cycle of death and rebirth by practicing the "Noble Eightfold Path."

 

 

In India today, lay Jains often uphold the ethical principle of "ahimsa" ("non-violence"). As such, Jains tend to promote vegetarianism and animal welfare. Another common practice in the Jain lay community is the samayika, a meditative ritual intended to strengthen spiritual discipline.