1. The Hindu Religion and Caste System of India Hinduism is the religion of 4 out of every 5 Indians The belief of Dharma provides a code of behavior & rules that depend on a person’s class/caste

2. Castes Social groups based on the circumstances of your birth. The Indian government has fought to eliminate the caste system, but many stick with the traditions in villages.

3. The main castes are: Brahmin-priests Kshatriya-warriors Vaisya-merchants & farmers Sudra-skilled artisans and laborers Untouchables-technically not even part of the caste system (Jatis-subdivisions of castes)

4. The Hindu Religion and Caste System of India There are two major points to remember about Hindu beliefs 1.Reincarnation teaches that a person is born, lives, dies, and is reborn again many times. 2. Karma-a person’s social position in their next life depends on his/her conduct in the present life

5. The Religious Groups of India Hindus- 80.5% (869,612,832) Muslims- 13.4% (144,755,428) Christians- 2.3% (24,846,080) Sikhs- 1.9% (20,525,023) Buddhists- <1.8% (19,444,758)