Knowledgebase

EXPLAINING HINDU DHARMA

Hindu Dharma is formed of diverse traditions and has no single founder. Among its direct roots is the historical Vedic religion of Iron Age India and, as such, Hindu Dharma is often called the “oldest living religion” or the “oldest living major religion” in the world. More information about Hindu Dharma – coming soon.

FESTIVALS

Hindus observe sacred occasions by festive observances. Many festivals are seasonal. Some celebrate harvest and birth of God or heroes. Some are dedicated to important events in Hindu mythology. HSS UK primarily celebrates 4 ‘Utsavs’. ‘Utsav’ is the Sanskrit word for Hindu festivals, meaning ‘to cause to grow ‘upward’. A festival may be observed with acts of worship, offerings to deities, fasting, feasting, vigil, rituals, fairs, charity, celebrations, Puja, aarti etc. They celebrate individual and community life of Hindus without distinction of caste, gender or class. Click here for more information.