Engaging With Faith Communities: Introduction to Hinduism Hinduism dates back over 4,000 years and is made up of a variety of different religious beliefs and practices which originated near the river Indus in India. The name 'Hindu' comes from the word Indus. There is tremendous variety within the religious traditions covered by the title of Hinduism. Hindus are people who practise the religion known as Hinduism, which many prefer to call Sanatana Dharma. This means the 'Eternal Way' in . This way of living embraces many beliefs and practices, based on some broadly agreed principles about the nature and purpose of existence. 'Hindu' can also be used to describe one's cultural heritage and identity. It is a very adaptable religion and most adherents fit the religion into the community in which they live. As a result, there are significant variations in the way that Hinduism is practised from community to community and even from family to family. Hindus Worldwide There are around 900 million Hindus in the world, making it the world's third largest religion, with 22% of the global population. Most live in India (780 million: 79% of the country's population), although there are sizeable Hindu communities in South-East Asia, East and South Africa, and other places where Hindus have migrated, such as the Caribbean. Many Hindu teachings have made their influence felt beyond the Hindu community itself, including various forms of (from its use as a physical fitness and dietary regime to the diverse practices of ), vegetarianism, Ayurvedic medicine, and the social and political application of the principle of non-violence known as 'Ahimsa'. Hindus in Britain Hindus visited and worked in Britain for centuries before there was any notable migration here. The number of Hindu students and professionals in Britain increased markedly from the late 19th century onwards. In the 1950s and 60s, significant numbers settled here, some direct from India, others via African states such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. Most Hindus in Britain today are Gujarati (55-70%) or Punjabi (15-20%), the remainder being from other parts of India, West Bengal or Sri Lanka. At the time of the 2011 Census, there were 817,000 Hindus in Britain, 1.5% of the population. Hindus in Leicester Large numbers of Hindus came to Leicester from the 1950s onwards, from India, East Africa, Southern Africa and Fiji. The 2011 Census records 50,087 Hindus in Leicester, 15.2% of the population. The first Hindu mandir in Leicester opened in Cromford Street, Highfields in 1969. The Shree Sanatan Mandir (founded 1971), in Weymouth Street, is the headquarters of the National Council of Hindu Temples, UK. The Swaminarayan Hindu Mission has had a base in Loughborough Road since 1991. The Shree Jalaram Prarthana Mandal on Narborough Road was one of the first purpose-built Hindu temples in Europe (in 1995). More recently, the Shri Swarinarayan mandir opened in October 2011 on Gipsy Lane in the North east of the city. This is a great landmark for the local community and the midlands at large. Leicester has a world-wide reputation for hosting Hindu festivals including the largest celebration of Diwali outside India. Although most Hindu children and young people attend state community schools, the Krishna Avanti Primary School opened as a Free School in September 2011.

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Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Gipsy Lane

Key beliefs and practices  Hindus believe Brahman to be the one uncreated, unchanging reality behind the diversity of life, the source from which everything proceeds and the goal to which everything must eventually return.  Hindus believe that there is one true god, the supreme spirit, called Brahman. Brahman has many forms, pervades the whole universe, and is symbolised by the sacred syllable aum or . Most Hindus believe that Brahman is present in every person as the eternal spirit or , called the atman. Brahman contains everything: creation and destruction, male and female, good and evil, movement and stillness.  There are three main aspects of Brahman. These are expressed in the trimurti and are Brahma, the creator, Vishnu, the preserver and , the destroyer.  Hindus believe that sometimes a god will appear on the earth in living form. Such an appearance is called an avatar. Perhaps the best English translation of avatar is 'incarnation'. However, ‘avatar’ also conveys the belief that God has the ability to take any form and will descend to earth at times when there has been a decline in goodness, and evil is influencing human actions.  The goal of the individual soul (atman) is to break free of the realm of illusion (maya) and gain reunion with Brahman. The atman could be defined as being the concept of the soul, which is eternal - and is linked to the cycle of birth, rebirth and death - samsara. This is moksha (liberation). Those who have not yet attained liberation continue their search for God through the cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth (samsara), in various forms as dictated by the law of karma.  Belief in Karma, which literally means ‘action’. The Law of Karma is the law of cause and effect on personal terms. It implies that, 'What you sow is what you reap.' Good action adds up and produces a good result while bad actions produce contrary effects. All actions are thought to have

2 consequences, either immediately or at a later stage, sometimes even in future births. Everything in the universe is connected by this law of cause and effect.  Dharma is an important term in Indian religions. In Hinduism it means 'duty', 'virtue', 'morality', even 'religion' and it refers to the power which upholds the universe and society. It makes people moral or gives humans the opportunity to act virtuously. This does not mean precisely the same for everyone; different people have different obligations and duties according to their age, gender, and social position.  Samsara (Sanskrit) implies the theory of 'Reincarnation' or the transmigration of the soul - the idea that we are born again and again. It refers to the 'stream of existence' or continuity of life through the cycle of birth, death and rebirth.  Moksha is the cycle of rebirth continues until the attainment of Moksha. Moksha comes from Sanskrit - Moha and Kshya, that is, destruction of delusion.  There are many scriptures written in Sanskrit, which can be chanted and read. The Vedas are the oldest, dating in their written form from around 1500 BCE. They contain hymns, incantations and rituals, as well as scientific knowledge. The Upanishads (800-400 BCE) discuss the doctrine of karma and describe ways in which the soul can be united with Brahman. The Ramayana provides guidance for day-to-day living as a householder. One of the most popular scriptures (certainly the best known outside of India and the Hindu community itself) is the Bhagavad Gita ('Song of the Lord'), an extract from the epic poem, the Mahabharata, in which Lord Krishna instructs his disciple, Arjuna, in the requirements of the spiritual life.  For most Hindus, worship is a personal matter and there is an emphasis on worship in the home. Even worship in the mandir has some individual as well as communal elements. Many Hindu homes have a room or a corner of a room set aside for a shrine before which , or worship, will be performed. In UK mandirs there are usually several shrines devoted to different (images of deities, considered divine once consecrated; from Sanskrit, literally meaning ‘embodiment). In India each mandir is often devoted to just one deity. Communal worship usually takes place twice a day.

Festivals The Hindu calendar is lunar. The New Year begins in October/November. Each month starts on the first day after the no-moon day. An additional calendar month is observed every three years to bring it in line with the more scientific solar calendar. The festivals celebrated by Hindus mark seasonal, historical and religious events, rites of passage, life events and family relationships. They all have underlying spiritual significance. Some are specific to certain regions, while others are celebrated by Hindus worldwide. The main festivals are Diwali (the festival of lights), usually in October or November, Holi (which marks the coming of Spring) and Navaratri (celebrating fertility and harvest). Diwali The Hindu New Year festival lasts from one to five days and is a festival of

3 light which includes the hanging of lighted lanterns and the setting off of colourful fireworks. The origins and stories surrounding the festival vary from one part of India to another, but it is generally associated with the story of Rama and Sita and their victorious return to Ayodhya after their exile. The festival marks the beginning of the financial year in India and the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Lakshmi, is worshipped. Diwali is usually celebrated in November/December. It is celebrated as the victory of good over evil. Diwali in Leicester Diwali celebrations in Leicester are one of the biggest outside of India. The switching on of the Diwali lights has in the past attracted up to 60,000 people from all over the region, who come to join in with the unique celebrations. New additions for 2016 included a Diwali Village, an aerial firework display above Belgrave Road and an exciting two-week events programme across the city including dance, music, theatre and exhibitions. Holi Holi celebrates Krishna, and the legend of Holika and Prahlad. Some believe the origin of the festival lies with Krishna who was very mischievous as a young boy and threw coloured water over the gopis (milkmaids). This developed into the practical jokes and games of Holi. The story of Prahlad is seen to symbolise good overcoming evil and is why traditionally bonfires are lit. Ganesh Charturti This festival marks the birthday of Ganesh, the elephant-headed deity. Ganesh is seen as the remover of obstacles, and is especially worshipped by those developing new projects and those experiencing big changes in their lives such as moving house, sitting examinations or getting married. People worship him first or prior to anyone else or any other prayer. Navaratri/Durga Puja/Dassera This festival is celebrated right across India. 'Navaratri' means nine nights, the length of the festival, but it is the last three nights which are the most important. Hindus have sacred images of the goddess and they worship her for 9 nights. On the 10th day the sacred image is submerged in water. In northern India Rama's victory over Ravana, the demon king of Sri Lanka, is commemorated, and in that region as well as in Bengal the eighth day sees the goddess Durga being worshipped. JanamashTami/Krishna This is the birthday of Krishna and is widely celebrated by Hindus. Many will fast till midnight, the time of Krishna's birth, when he is welcomed with singing, dancing and sweets. In some homes and temples an image of the baby Krishna is put in a cradle and special sweets are offered and distributed.

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FAQs

Appearance and identity Is the school dress code suitable for Hindu pupils? Is there a specific dress for girls? While not a concern for many Hindus, there are some who would not consider it acceptable for females to have uncovered legs. The school dress code will need to allow for this permitting Hindu girls to wear long skirts or trousers and moderate clothing for P.E. Why do some Hindus wear a mark/tilak on their forehead?

The tilak is a mark created by the smearing of powder or paste on the forehead. Occasionally it extends vertically and horizontally on a large part of the forehead and may cover the nose also. Saivites (followers of Shiva) wear a tilak of three horizontal lines across the forehead, with or without a red dot. Among Vaishnavites (followers of Vishnu), the many tilak variations usually include two or more vertical lines resembling the letter U, which symbolises the foot of Vishnu. The Swaminarayan sect, will often wear a 'tilak ' chandlo'.The tilak's U shape represents the lotus feet of God, while the chandlo represents the devotee of God. The tilak is often worn on religious occasions and on special days (birthdays, weddings, etc.) or after marriage. For married women the tilak mark takes the form of a 'bindi' dot. It symbolises female energy and is believed to protect women and their husbands. For some, the bindi is seen as a decorative accessory and is worn by unmarried girls and non-Hindu women.

5 What are the patterns sometimes seen on girls’ hands and feet?

Mendhi or Mehndi is the application of henna as a temporary form of skin decoration on the hands and or feet. Henna paste is usually applied on the skin using a plastic cone or a paint brush. Traditional mehndi designs draw the sun on the palm. Henna is typically applied during special occasions such as weddings and some Hindu festivals when women and girls may have Henna applied to hands and feet. The pattern takes around two weeks to fade therefore pupils may be still wearing it when in school around festival time or if they have attended a wedding.

What is the significance of the Rakhi, i.e. the decorative thread worn around the wrist? Around mid-August, Hindus all over the world celebrate Raksha Bandhan. ’Raksha’ means protection, and "bandhan" means bound or binding. Traditionally the occasion is marked by sisters tying an amulet a 'rakshaa' on their brother's right wrist, to protect him from evil influence and those factors which may taint his character, and to strengthen the bond of sibling love between them. Today the sacred thread of Rakhi is not just limited to only brothers and sisters but it could be tied by a wife, a daughter or mother. Some Hindus will go to the mandir on this day and have a priest tie a rakhiaround their wrist and receive a . The festival of Rakhi also symbolises peaceful coexistence, which is evident when neighbours and friends tie Rakhi on each other's wrists. The 'rakhadi' or 'rakhi' for rakshaa bandhan itself ranges from a coloured cotton string to exquisitely decorated balls of various sizes and materials such as fluffy cotton, 'zari' paper, tinsel, and so on.

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The Rakhi is a sacred thread and some Hindus believe it should not be taken off at all. Pupils should not be asked to cut a Rakhi. If the Rakhi has loose threads that are hanging down and present a risk in some curriculum subjects such as Design and Technology or a practical science lesson, pupils should be asked to cover the Rakhi with a plain sweat/wrist band for the duration of the lesson or tape the ends to the main part of the Rakhi. What is a Rudraksha or Mala? Rudraksha is a large evergreen broad-leaved tree whose seed is traditionally used for (malas) in Hinduism. Rudraksha beads are the material from which malas 108 beads in number) are made. The term is used both for the berries themselves and as a term for the type of mala made from them. A Rudraksha is similar in appearance and function to a Christian rosary and is used for repetitive prayer and as an aid for worship. Some Hindu pupils would choose to wear the Rudraksha as a necklace or around the wrist or upper arm. Often they are left on the home shrine as an aid to worship. It is acceptable to remove the Rudraksha for PE and games provided it is handled with clean hands and placed in a safe, clean, secure place.

What is a Kanthi? The Kanthi is is a two or one stringed 'chain' of wooden beads worn around the neck. A kanthi is a symbol of complete surrender to God. It has great significance for Vaishnavites and Swaminarayan followers. This cannot be removed by pupils at any time and this must be respected, as it represents initiation into a particular sect.

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What is 'Shravan'? Shravan (pron. Shr'vana ) is the name of a month in the Hindu calendar. It refers to the period of July to August in the Hindu Lunar calendar; and August to September in the Tamil Calendar. Many important festivals are celebrated in this month. Many Hindus avoid non-vegetarian food and do not drink alcohol during this time. Some Hindu pupils will only eat a single meal a day during this time. Some will avoid food which contains onion and garlic and still others eat food without salt. Should the school diary take account of Hindu festivals? It is important for schools to consider the dates of key festivals. They might consider a whole school celebration, for example an assembly for Diwali, to which parents are invited. Navaratri is a festival which involves friends and family getting together for food and dancing over a period of nine nights. If possible schools should try to schedule parents' evenings outside of the main religious festivals. Can Hindus join in non-Hindu festivals? Hindus regard all religions as equal and consider they can all provide paths to God. There is no tradition of Hindus seeking to convert others to Hinduism. Therefore there would be no problem in Hindu pupils joining in with particular festivities. However, if food is being served as a part of a festival, staff should be aware that many Hindus are vegetarian. What are the rules about eating and drinking? Many Hindus are vegetarian and also avoid eggs and dairy products although some will eat fish, chicken, lamb and eggs. Schools should consider Hindu dietary practices, particularly the need to exclude beef products. Canteens should provide a range of vegetarian foods and if requested provide a list of ingredients for foods. Hindus do not eat beef, considering the cow to be a sacred animal. Food products which contain gelatine cannot be eaten. Some Hindu pupils fast on special occasions like festivals. On such days they may choose not to eat at all, eat once or have a special diet of simple food. Meat, fish and eggs will not be eaten on special days, especially during the month of Shravan. Food and drink that can be eaten at this time include , yoghurt, fresh fruit, certain vegetables such as potatoes or sweet potatoes and sago. Some Hindus will choose to never eat garlic, onions, mushrooms or drink coffee, tea or any alcohol. There are no restrictions in Hinduism as to how animal slaughter has taken place although most Hindus are concerned with animal welfare. Does the school need to make any provision for prayer times? Prayer can be performed at any time and anywhere, although it is customary for Hindus to pray first thing in the morning and in the evening before the main meal. This should be borne in mind when Hindu pupils go on residential field

8 trips. The Curriculum What is suitable dress for PE? For PE activities, Hindu girls should be permitted to wear tracksuit trousers. For swimming, it is now possible to buy full length body swimsuits in cotton or lycra which cover the legs. Footless tights or leggings could also be worn for swimming. What changing facilities should be provided? Hindus generally consider it improper to be naked in front of others. This presents a problem where a school has communal showers. Where there are individual, private shower cubicles, the difficulty is avoided. In the absence of such facilities, schools should respect the wishes of Hindu pupils not wanting to take showers at school. Schools should always arrange for girls and boys to change separately, whatever their background. Within this context, the needs of Hindu pupils should be met. Is it safe for religious objects to be worn during PE or games or swimming? Some pupils wear a necklace with the Hindu 'Aum' symbol around the neck, or a Hindu deity or another religious symbol. This should not be regarded as an item of jewellery but something of religious significance and therefore something that schools should try to accommodate. It is recognised that this may sometimes present a health and safety hazard which means that there will be occasions when the item may need to be removed. Most pupils will be happy to remove religious items during PE. They should be stored in a safe place and treated with respect. The sacred thread should be worn at all times if possible, even when swimming, but many will be happy to remove it.

Collective Worship and Assembly What involvement can a Hindu student have in collective worship? Hinduism embraces a wide range of practices and beliefs. Most Hindus are open-minded and keen to learn about other religions therefore it is unlikely that Hindu parents will want to withdraw their children from collective worship. It is acceptable for Hindu pupils to observe other acts of worship being performed. The difference between being 'observers' and 'active participants' should be made clear to Hindu pupils and parents. Parents have the right to ask for their child to be totally or partially withdrawn from collective worship in accordance with the Education Act 1944. No reasons have to be given but discussion with parents over the issues concerning withdrawal are recommended. Parents should be informed that collective worship offers pupils opportunities for spiritual and moral development. The choice of content for collective worship should have regard for pupils' family

9 backgrounds, ages and aptitudes and should give pupils a variety of experiences to enable them to reflect on, and respond to, things which the school community believes are important.

Other Issues What should the school be aware of in regard to Hindu funeral rites? Ideally, Hindus would like to complete the funeral rites immediately, but due to logistics in the UK this is not usually possible and hence can vary from case to case. Traditionally, the immediate family remain indoors for 10-13 days of mourning during which activities which take place outside, including contact with school, are dealt with by relatives and friends. During this 10- 13-day mourning period friends will visit and offer their condolences. It is customary to remove shoes before entering an Indian home. 'Shradh' is practiced one year after the death of the person. This is the Hindu practice of giving food to the poor in memory of the deceased. This can either be an annual event or a large one-off event. A priest will say prayers for the deceased and during this time, usually lasting one month, the family will not buy any new clothes or attend any parties. Sons are responsible for carrying out Shradh.

Hinduism Dos and Don'ts

Do:  Introduce pupils to the Hindu idea of one God, Brahman.  Use the spelling Rama rather than Ram when talking about the incarnation of the god Vishnu.

Don't  Suggest that all Hindus are polytheists believing in many gods.  Trivialise the concept of Samsara (reincarnation) by suggesting that in one's next life one may be reincarnated as a species other than human, e.g. a spider, ant or fly. Although it is theoretically possible to leap from human to another species, Hinduism emphasises that the process is a slow one taking place over hundreds of incarnations.  Describe the images and paintings of gods and goddesses as idols, as this suggests idolatry, as if Hindus literally worship the statue or painting or a spirit inside the statue. Hindus use images to aid and focus worship.  Refer to the trimurti in Hinduism of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva as being 'the Trinity'. The role of these three gods in Hinduism bears no resemblance to the place of the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit in Christianity.

Acknowledgements and references

With grateful thanks for their contributions

Kishan Devani Hiten Bhatt George Ballentyne Elizabeth Wayne Deepak Fakey

10 Ramesh Majithia

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