Hinduism: more than just a religion

As the smell of burning wood wafted through the air, people around me chanted verse after verse of Hindu prayer. Women wore classic Indian saris; men donned their kurta pajamas. I was at a typical Indian puja, a Hindu prayer ritual. These were events I participate in numerous times during the year for special religious occasions.

My family is devoutly Hindu, and they have taught me to see Hinduism as more than a religion.

Hinduism is one of the oldest religions with a billion followers worldwide. Hindus, mainly Indians, believe in a supreme being who exists both in spirit and through avatars. When Hindus pray before idols, they are not praying directly to the idol, but what they represent about this supreme being.

I grew up appreciating American experiences with a distinctly Indian twist. For instance, my bedtime stories included Dr. Seuss books and classic stories from the Panchatantra, a collection of children stories that teach morals and core Hindu principles.

Like every other kid, I woke up in the morning, ate breakfast, brushed my teeth and got ready for school. But unlike most of my classmates, I prayed daily before school.

I was similiar but different, and I felt it every day. From kindergarten until sixth grade, I attended Fremont Christian School because my parents thought Fremont Christian would provide some shelter compared to the harshness in public schools.

But because all of my classmates were Christian, I often felt like the odd one out. It was hard fitting in with a group of people with a different belief system and faith.

Inviting friends home was the worst part. Imagine having to explain to someone who came over why you have a mandir, a room dedicated to prayer and why you have “idols” to people who look down on that practice. It was awkward and strange  — it made me feel like I didn’t belong.

Still, Hinduism is a blessing. It has taught me lessons I would not have learned elsewhere. From the short stories of Panchatantra to the Gita, the Hindu holy book, the readings have influenced me to help those around me, not because it will bring me happiness, but because it is my duty as a human being.

Furthermore, Hindu festivals are awe-inspiring. From seeing the sparkling lights of Diwali to running around throwing colored powder during Holi, I have found a way to connect with my family and friends through Hindu festivals.

These festivals are much more than religious rituals. They are celebrations. Every event is filled with Indian music blaring from various speakers, vibrant laughter as parents converse and kids run around, and tastes and smells that draw people back to India. The times spent at these celebrations are as much about the religious significance as they are about partying.

At the end of the day whether it be morning prayer or family gatherings, Hinduism follows me everywhere I go. It’s like a shadow: something I can never get rid of, something that has become part of who I