Encountering Hindu Traditions in Modern India
Mr. Mitchell's Social Studies Class

Assignments to hand in:    Background Information Comprehension Questions    &    Chart: Notes on Hindu Traditions

Step 1: Download and print the handout: Background Information on Modern Hindu Traditions

Step 2: Read the Background Information on each topic and answer all comprehension questions on a separate piece of paper.

Step 3: Download and print the handout: Chart: Notes on Hindu Traditions

Step 4: Complete the Chart: Notes on Hindu Traditions by following these directions:

    A. Create your own symbol in the "Symbol" column that represents the tradition (use the pictures and descriptions below).

    B. Fill out the "Answer to key questions" by referring to the question with each picture for each modern Hindu tradition below.

Modern Hindu Traditions

This picture shows an ayurvedic doctor diagnosing a patient by feeling her pulse.

Key Question: How do ayurvedic doctors attempt to promote good health?

This picture shows a brahmin reading from sacred texts as he explains their meaning to a group of worshipers.

Key Question: What role do brahmins play in Hindu society?

This picture shows people lighting candles for Divali - the festival of lights - in India.

Key Question: What is Divali, and what are some of the ways in which it is celebrated?

This picture shows an Indian family eating a meal together at their home in the Nilgiri Hills.

Key Question: Why are many Hindus vegetarians?

This picture shows the Chidambaram Temple in Tamil Nadu, India.

Key Question: How do Hindus worship in a Hindu temple?

This picture shows Indian pilgrims entering the waters of Pushkar Lake during a festival in the holy Hindu city of Pushkar.

Key Question: What are the characteristics of Hindu pilgrimages?

This picture shows an elaborately decorated cow in Goa.

Key Question: How are cows treated in Hindu society?

This picture shows a sannyasin - Hindu holy man - sitting near a street corner in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Key Question: What are sannyasins, and how do they live?

This picture shows a bride and a groom with their families during their wedding ceremony in Madras.

Key Question: What are the most common practices of vivaha?

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