Understanding Hinduism Series

Hinduism, the true name of which is 'Sanatana Dharma'  is the world's oldest religion. This books gives an insight into the various aspects of Hinduism for the beginner. It is a concise text to understand all about Hinduism. The book was written mainly with a view to bring the doctrines and distinctive features of the Sanatana Dharma to the Indian diaspora who are scattered all over the world. The following aspects of Hinduism are detailed in its various chapters. What is religion. How did religion evolve. What are the Hindu Scriptures. How does a Hindu worship his God(s). What is Idol worship and Temple worship. Which are the important Hindu Festivals. What is the role of Meditation in Hinduism.  What is the meaning of Yoga in Hinduism. What does the word 'Dharma' mean in Hinduism. What are the roles of Karma and Reincarnation in Hinduism. What are Mythologies in Hinduism. What is their roles. What is meant by an Avatar in Hinduism. What is the concept of Varna Ashrama in Hinduism. Why are most Hindus Vegetarians. Is Diet important in Hinduism. Hinduism and its relation to Arts like Music, Dance, Drama and Painting. Science and Hinduism is dealt with in some detail. What is the Concept of Time in Hinduism. What does Hinduism say about Death and Reincarnation. Who were Adi Sankaracharya and Swami Vivekananda.  

This book presents a fictionalized rendition of the Yadu-Avadhoota Samvadam found in the Srimad Bhagavatham. Within its pages, the author eloquently portrays the Twenty-four Gurus, as originally described by the Avadhoota. The narrative follows the journey of the Brahmachari sage Datta, who embarks on a nationwide expedition to glean experiential insights into the diverse teachings of Hindu philosophy. Throughout his travels, Datta's path intersects with a multitude of creatures, objects and individuals that reside in the embrace of Nature and its Ecology. From each encounter, he assimilates profound insights and wisdom, unraveling the philosophy of existence itself. These encounters are vividly depicted as a  captivating and enthralling Story imbuing the narrative with intrigue. At the end of his odyssey, he finally comes to realize that all the knowledge that he was seeking was within his own body and soul. This comes as a great revelation to him. In its opening segments, the book delves into the Art of Studying. It initiates by addressing the manner in which a student ought to approach learning, accompanied by illustrative instances. Furthermore, it extensively elucidates the Techniques of Self-Teaching. The mentor imparts lucid guidance to his pupil, delineating the Essential qualities governing a student's approach to both academia and life. Through the lens of the six Pramanas, the sacred pathways of true understanding come alive, guiding the seeker toward enlightenment. To enhance the textual variety, the author presents the chapter summaries in the form of verses, injecting a rhythmic cadence that complements the overall content. The following are the "Twenty-four Gurus" who "taught" Datta the essential philosophical lessons. Delve into the profound teachings as King Yadu's inquiry unravels the 'Gurus', as narrated by the Avadhoota himself. From the serene embrace of the Five Elements – Earth, Water, Air, Sky and Fire – to the radiant lessons drawn from the Sun and the Moon, the sage paints a vivid portrait of learning from the very heart of Nature. The symphony of life's wisdom flows through the tales of a Pigeon family, a Python's serpentine grace, and the industriousness of the Honeybee. The Ocean imparts its vastness, while the gentle Moth, the grandeur of an Elephant, the elegance of a Deer and the secrets of Fish whisper profound philosophical truths through the beauty of their existence. Intriguing encounters with a Hawk, a Serpent, a Spider, and a Wasp bring forth invaluable lessons, each as unique as the creatures themselves. Even the most unexpected mentors emerge – a Courtesan, a young nubile Maiden, a Fletcher, and a Child, each sharing their nuggets of wisdom. Yet in the end, it is within the sacred sanctuary of the Self that the Avadhoota finds the Ultimate Truth. Through the tapestry of his experiences, he recognizes that the most profound lessons are etched within his own Body and Mind, revealing the highest pinnacle of understanding. This book is a treasure trove, distilling profound philosophical ideologies from the depths of Hindu Scriptures into an accessible and enthralling narrative. It enchants the reader, revealing the essence of profound wisdom in a language that both soothes and enlightens, leaving one with a deeper connection to the Universe and a richer appreciation for the beauty of existence. The author has succeeded in capturing the Essence of Hinduism in this book and has presented the deep truths and doctrines from the Vedas and Upanishads in easily assimilable language.