Hindu Rites and Rituals: Sentiments, Sacraments and Symbols

by Sadhu Mukundcharandas

Have you ever wondered why Hindus wave lamps in front of their deities? Or why Hindu mandirs have the particular architecture that they do? Perhaps you're wondering what those beads are that different Hindus wear around their necks? Or the significance of the red marking on their forehead? In Hindu Rites and Rituals , Sadhu Mukundcharandas does a remarkable job answering these and many more questions about Hinduism. A religion of intricate rituals, colorful festivals and beautiful stories, Hinduism can be a bewildering experience for many, even amongst its adherents. Sadhu Mukundcharandas demystifies so many of the rites and rituals, the sentiments and sacraments of Hinduism, taking the reader inside the religion to understand the assumptions and beliefs that inform the practitioner's way of life. He explores in-depth the rituals and rites that form the outward expressions of the religion; whether the question is simple, such as, why Hindus clap while singing, or more theologically dense, such as why Hindus accept deity worship, it is thoroughly addressed with ample scriptural references in a manner that assumes no prior knowledge of Hinduism. He even addresses deeper philosophical issues, such as the need for rituals if devotional sentiments are more important, from a traditional Hindu perspective. The book is beautifully designed, with more than 900 stunning color photographs, paintings and maps. It is also encyclopedic in scope, as it systematically and exhaustively covers the methods and meanings of mandir rituals, bhakti rituals, home rituals, personal rituals, and Hindu symbols through over 500 pages of lucid text. Hindu Rites and Rituals is a masterwork of research and meticulous documentation as Sadhu Mukundcharandas has referenced over 160 scholarly books and journals and 120 Hindu scriptures for this book. Ultimately, this book serves as more than a mere explanation of Hinduism, but as a call to celebrate and practice Hindu rites and rituals with a renewed sense of significance.

552 pages, Hardcover

Published May 1, 2010

Reviews

[Janak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hindu Rites and Rituals
is the author’s fourth full-colour book in the cadre of “eventually growing category of a ‘Hindu Dharma Encyclopaedia’” cited by Dr. Hasu Yajnik in his Foreword to Hindu Festivals (origin, sentiments & rituals), the author’s previous book (2005). The first was Vachanamrut Handbook and the second, Rishis, Mystics & Heroes of India (Vol. I). This book break’s the record with an astonishing number of 781 superb colour photographs, 90 paintings and 27 maps. These enable the reader to experience the depth and understanding of how Hindus live and have adjusted to migration, changing cultural trends and cope with daily stress by their rites, daily rituals and festivals.
The effort and care to include the minutest details and references from the ancient Sanskrit shãstras is commendable. There’s something here for every reader; all young Hindus who have been pestering parent’s about the ‘why’, their parents who sorely wished they had the right answers, as well as for teachers, admirers and academics.
A book worthy as a birthday gift and for young Hindus about to get married. The brief explanation of the vivãh rites with photographs will make the ceremony all the more meaningful and increase its sanctity in the hearts of the Hindu couple. A must read prior to marriage.

Dr. Rashmikant Mehta,
Sanskritist, Author and Director,
B.J. Institute of Learning & Research, Amdavad., India

Contents

Author: Sadhu Mukundcharandas
1st Edition: June 2007
Language: English
ISBN: 81-7526-356-3
Pages: 512
Hardback

Published by: Swaminarayan Aksharpith, Ahmedabad - 4, INDIA.
Copyright: © 2007, Swaminarayan Aksharpith.

Available at all BAPS centers in India, UK, USA, Australia & E. Africa.