Practices of Hinduism

 Vedas- oldest scripture which contains prayers, hymns and rituals  Upanishads- essays on interpretation of Vedas  Mahabharata- epic poem which includes Bhagavad Gita  Bhagavad Gita- Krishna’s advice to Arjuna which explains the basic ideas of Hinduism  Ramayana- story of Rama, Sita and Hanuman which exemplifies dharma Writings

 Diwali (Deepvali)-associated with Rama, festival of lights that celebrate the New Year (October/November)  Durga Puja (Dasara)-dedicated to the goddess Durga, celebrates triumph of good over evil. (September/October)  Holi-dedicated to Krishna, festival of colors that celebrates creation and renewal. (Spring)  afe=active Holidays

 Puja-worship that includes:  purification  an offering (fruit, money, sweets)  receipt of god’s blessing (flowers, ashes)  Puja is done individually at home, temples and in nature  Pilgrimages to holy sites are popular  The Ganges River is considered sacred  Cows and other animals are considered sacred Worship