Religion

Hinduism: Hinduism is one of the oldest religions in the world, beginning more than 4,000 years ago in ancient India. It started with the sacred songs and teachings of the Vedas, written in Sanskrit, one of the world’s oldest languages. People sang hymns to gods like Indra (god of rain and thunder), Agni (god of fire), and Soma (a sacred plant used in rituals). Over time, Hinduism grew into a rich and colorful religion with many gods and goddesses — more than almost any other faith!

Some of the most important are known as the Trimurti — Brahma, the creator of the universe; Vishnu, the protector; and Shiva, the destroyer who brings new beginnings. Other beloved deities include Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth; Saraswati, the goddess of learning; and Durga, the brave warrior goddess. Hindus believe that all living things have a soul, and that every action (called karma) affects what happens to you in this life and the next. The goal of life is to reach moksha, or freedom from the endless cycle of birth and rebirth, by living a good, kind, and truthful life.

Hindu temples were built to honor these gods, filled with bells, lamps, flowers, and colorful carvings. Even today, people celebrate Hindu festivals like Diwali, the festival of lights, and Holi, the festival of colors, to remind them that light always defeats darkness and good always triumphs over evil. Hinduism teaches peace, respect for all life, and the idea that there are many paths to the same truth, making it one of the most open and welcoming religions in the world.

Buddhism: Emperor Ashoka followed the teachings of the Buddha, which were called dhamma. Dhamma taught people to be kind to animals, respect elders, and avoid violence. He sent messengers to faraway lands — Egypt, Syria, Greece, and Sri Lanka — to share these ideas with the world.

Jainism: At the same time, Jainism also grew. Its followers believed in ahimsa, or non-violence. They would not eat or do anything that harmed another living being — not even a plant! Some Jain monks wore no clothes at all to show that they owned nothing. They built beautiful temples in rock, like the ones at Aihole, Badami, and Ellora, carved with stories about peace and simple living.