A Hindu Perspective by Dr. Balliram Chadee. PhD.

www.thehanumanmission.com. bally@thehanumanmission.com or Bally 416-992-2487.

This is the 34th in a series of articles by Dr. Balliram Chadee & Hotshots Newspaper to bring a Hindu Perspective to educate our community. Comments & suggestions are welcome.

Question: Can the “Fundamentals of Hinduism” be practiced today in this world?

Ans : As we all enter the New Year, I firstly wish and pray that Hanumanji's Blessings be with each and every one of you, your families and your friends. I also pray that my sweet lord bless all those who may be sick or in distress, as well as those who may be going through tough and troubled periods in their lives. Finally I pray and hope that those who lost a loved one will find peace, love and strength in their hearts to allow those souls to travel and find their rightful places in the heavenly region. As Hindus, we share certain views of fundamental beliefs, practices and rituals, which should or must be adhered too, practiced or honored; to be in unity with the frequency of the Supreme Being above. It is the basic acceptance of Hindus (practicing or not), that three fundamentals of Sanatan Dharma or Hindu religion, involves Rites, Rituals and Philosophy. This doctrine also holds true for all religions in some shape, form or fashion, but we reflect on Hinduism today. So then how do answer these questions: What are the fundamentals of Hinduism? Do we worship idols? Do we have multiple Gods? Do we pray to stone? Can we see God through our practices and styles of worship?

I can state a few facts, based on life experiences, research and documented literature which I have had the privilege of being exposed to, as many others have. It is firstly important to understand that in Hinduism, there is no right and wrong on the views of a personal interpretation or opinion, as long as that view conforms to the stated documented works of our texts. Some of the scriptures of Hinduism include the Vedas, Purana, Shastras, Upanishads, Bhagavad-Gita Gita, Mahabharat, Ramayana and the Smritis, among others. Some of the basic rites include ceremonial duties done at birth, marriage and death, while some of the rituals include Puja, Yagna, Japa, Havan etc. The philosophy associated with Hinduism deals with conforming disciplines built into these rites and rituals and the associated lifestyles which we, as practicing Hindus conform to. The respect which we can command from others based on our practices and the ability most of all for us as Hindus; to respect others in their practices and concepts, eventually determines our conformance to Hindu doctrines. The philosophy includes a bigger and wider view of our lifestyles, beyond the actual practicing of rites and rituals and so we can be “ more of a Hindu ” by abiding with the required doctrines , than going to temples, observing extensive fasting, performing rigorous puja and doing Japa 24/7 etc.

The Fundamentals of Hinduism can be achieved and accomplished very easily today , whether in the Caribbean or here in North America , despite the so many excuses we make when we defy our religious practices and doctrines. We pray to GOD, we DO NOT PRAY to idols and stones ! This practice needs understanding and so we should all try to learn more about them and share these practices with others, so they too can understand. Certain rites and rituals are practiced using elements and items, such as “ Murtis, Shiva Lingam or Fire ” in Hinduism, which assist in focus, frequency and which allow us the opportunity to unite with the unseen divine presence of God , as humans; to relate to during our moments of practicing these rites and rituals. Abiding to the laws of ethics, moral standards and integrity, makes anyone a more devout Hindu than praying or going to places of worship for the wrong reasons. Whereas the requirements and expectations of prayer, praying and conforming to the rites and rituals prescribed by our sacred texts are the first priority, it is also extremely important for us as Hindus to understand and remember, we are who we are. See God in every living being, respect elders , cherish our parents, value our heritage, embrace our ancestry, preserve our rituals, practice our rites and abide by our philosophy…. these are the Fundamentals of Hinduism . We are born in Hindus homes based on our previous karma and actions; good or bad; and that decision by the Lord must be respected, whether we like it or not. Maybe it is now our chance to reflect on our current lifestyles to determine the karma we are banking. Would that be enough for our spiritual retirement? Would our current actions be enough to liberate our souls at the right time? Would our current practices as Hindus, allow us to find a permanent place with our almighty God, at that moment when he calls us home? Yes we live in modern times, but it is left upon us as Hindus, to conform to the Fundamentals of Hinduism. Yes, they can be achieved and practiced today. Just do more and talk less. Practice with value and preach with purpose. Help preserve our Dharma, its Fundamental Doctrines and the Rites, Rituals and Philosophy associated with it. Now you know it can be achieved and accomplished, just by you sincerely conforming to the fundamentals, will you? Now you know, so You be the Judge!