HINDU CULTURE 1
Hindu Culture of India
Subject: Sociology, Institute: University of California
Hinduism also originally termed as Sanatan Dharma is one of the oldest religions on this
earth. This religion has its origins in Vedas which were written around 2500-3500 years ago. The
major concentration of its followers is in India which has around 1 billion Hindus. This religion
has maximum followers after Islam and Christianity. The Indian culture developed in
synchronization with Hinduism so its also termed as Hindu Culture.
The Hindu culture is distinct from other culture due to their strong belief in pantheism.
They view God presence everywhere including in animals and other humans. The samskaras or
traits in Indian culture derive from belief in Karma (Cosmic retribution) apart from pantheism.
The Hindu culture has authoritarian approach to family system. They believe that elders have
right to make any demand. They also believe that marriages are decided in heaven and so India
has among the lowest divorce rate in the world. This does not mean that its always happy
marriages. Domestic abuse is prevalent in a society where women have less rights and the
authoritarian culture stifles dissent. The Indian culture is different from Western culture born
from renaissance which values freedom to be the highest value. The Hindu values or samskaras
reeks of purity but under pressure of authoritarianism.
Hindu temples have multiple idols of gods and there is always a rush of believers who
offer fruits and money to the deities. I visited Akshardham temple in New Delhi, India. The
temple had medieval Indian architecture with lot of sculptures depicting the local deities. There
are hundreds of Indian gods and goddesses though Lord Krishna has maximum followers. I also
attended a Hindu marriage ceremony. The bride and groom were wearing red color dresses as
