Hinduism has the distinction of being known as the world’s oldest known religion; its origins can be traced back to 5000-10,000 B.C.  Currently, Hinduism is rated as the third largest religion in the world with more than one billion disciples.

Fact 1. Most Hindus (85%) are found in India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka with a strong presence all over the world.

Fact 2.   Hinduism, unlike other formalized religions, has no single founder and is considered to be a way of life. Hinduism is based largely on teachings from the Vedas.

Fact 3.    The origins of the name ‘œHindu’ came from the Greeks and Arabs who called those living near the Sindhu River as Hindus. Accordingly, the way of life was termed as ‘œHinduism.’

Fact 4.  The concept of Hinduism is based on one God named as ‘œBrahman’ with all other gods as manifestations of Brahman. The concept of god is symbolized by idols. Forms of nature such as mountains, trees, and animals are revered in Hinduism. The cow is the most sacred of animals.

Fact 5.  The four objectives of Hinduism are: righteousness (dharma), wealth (artha), kama (desire), and moksha (salvation).

Fact 6.  The four stages of life are: the student (Brahmcharyashram), married life (Grihastahshram), leaving of home and praying to God with communications with family intact (Vanprasthashram), and finally the life of a sage where one leaves the family and discards all material things while devoting one’s life entirely towards holy pursuits (Sanyasashram ).
Fact 7.  Palmistry, tantric sex, acupressure, and astrology originated in India and are considered an integral part of Hinduism.

Fact 8.  The symbols aum and swastika are the main symbols of Hinduism. The Kalash, Trishul, Tilak, Lingam, Shri, and Yantra are other auspicious symbols. Saffron is the official color of Hinduism.

Fact 9. Sanskrit, considered the mother of all languages, is the main language used for the writing of the Hindu scriptures.

Fact 10. ‘œKarma,’ which is a universally known word, is a reflection of the actions of a person. All deeds contain  repercussions with the impact manifested in this life or the next one.