Hinduism Festivals and Sacred Sites

Question 1

Ras-Lila

Answer 1

A traditional dance-drama that reenacts the divine love stories of Krishna and the Gopis, particularly focusing on the dance of divine love that Krishna performed with the Gopis in Vrindavan

Question 2

Holi

Answer 2

The Festival of Color, a spring festival celebrated with vibrant colors, music, and dancing. It commemorates the victory of good over evil, particularly the burning of the demoness Holika, and the divine love of Krishna and Radha

Question 3

Bhang

Answer 3

An edible preparation made from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant, traditionally consumed during Hindu festivals like Holi. It is often mixed into drinks and sweets

Question 4

Divali (Diwali)

Answer 4

The Festival of Lights, one of the most important Hindu festivals. It celebrates the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, particularly commemorating the return of Lord Rama after defeating Ravana

Question 5

Upanayana

Answer 5

A sacred thread ceremony that marks the initiation of a young Hindu boy (typically from Brahmin, Kshatriya, or Vaishya caste) into formal education and religious life. The boy receives the “sacred thread” and learns the Gayatri Mantra

Question 6

Marriage (Vivaha)

Answer 6

One of the most important rites of passage in Hinduism. It involves elaborate rituals, including the exchanging of vows, tying of the mangalsutra, and circling the sacred fire

Question 7

Henna/Mehndi

Answer 7

The practice of applying intricate designs on the hands and feet using a paste made from the henna plant. It is traditionally applied during weddings and festivals

Question 8

Death

Answer 8

In Hinduism, it is viewed as a transition from one life to the next, influenced by karma. The body is traditionally cremated, and rituals such as the Shraddha are performed to ensure the soul’s peaceful journey to the afterlife

Question 9

Varanasi/Benaras

Answer 9

One of the oldest and most sacred cities in Hinduism, located on the bank of the Ganges River. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and a place where moksha can be attained

Question 10

Ganges River (Ganga)

Answer 10

The most sacred river in Hinduism, worshipped as the goddess Ganga. It is believed to purify sins and aid in the attainment of moksha. The river is central to many religious rituals, including bathing, prayer, and cremation

Question 11

Ghats

Answer 11

A series of steps leading down to a river, especially the Ganges, where rituals, including bathing, prayer, and cremation, are performed. Varanasi is famous for its numerous amount of these

Question 12

Vrindavan (Mathura)

Answer 12

A town known as the place where Lord Krishna spent his childhood. It is a major pilgrimage site, with numerous temples dedicated to Krishna and Radha, and is closely associated with the legends of Krishna’s divine play