History of Hindu Culture
Hinduism is known as sanatana dharma or way of life in Sanskrit, India's ancient language. The Hindu way of life evolved over the centuries, giving birth to a unique culture of art, music, food, theater and literature, all woven into the rich tapestry of religion.
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History
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According to Wendy Doniger in "The Hindus: An Alternative History", civilization in and around the Indus Valley region of what is now India and Pakistan began in the Stone Age in 50,000 B.C. until its decline starting at around 1,500 B.C. Key elements of Hindu culture evolved during this period. For example, later Aryan settlers built large bathing tanks for daily baths giving rise to a culture of physical cleanliness and ritual purification.
Original Settlers
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The Dravidian civilization (original inhabitants of the lower Indus Valley region) was highly evolved by 2,500 B.C., giving rise to a distinct culture of heterogeneity that is still retained in contemporary Hindu culture.
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Music & Dance
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Modern Carnatic music whose compositions are in praise of ancient Hindu gods originated in the Vedic Period during the first millennium B.C. The Vedas were sacred Hindu texts passed on through the oral tradition in the form of chants set to a specific rhythm. Indian classical dance, also depicting the stories of Hindu gods, evolved from this music.
Art
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The Khajuraho temple (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) built around 11th century A.D, depicts erotic art in murals and sculptures. Sensuality is a key part of the Hindu cultural psyche, the third goal of life being kama (sexual desire and fulfillment), as mentioned in the Vedas.
Architecture
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The final goal of a Hindu's life, moksha (enlightenment), is depicted in architecture. For example, the Shore Temples of Mahabalipuram built in the 7th century A.D. contain spiritual themes in stone carvings.
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References
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons
