Indian art is becoming increasingly popular in the West, but it cannot be appreciated fully without some knowledge of the religious and philosophical background. Margaret Stutley covers all aspects of Hindu iconography, and explains that its roots lie far back in the style of prehistoric art which has remained part of a living tradition for 7, 000 years and which resembles the folk murals of many Indian houses today. The dictionary demonstrates the rich profusion ...
Hinduism is the term now used to summarize the religious aspirations of the majority of Indians. It includes a variety of highly intellectual, metaphysical and philosophical systems, as well as the naive demonology and magico-religious beliefs of the masses. Hinduism is also a synthesis of three, originally separate religious traditions: the Dravidian, the Aryan and the aboriginal.
Although many westerners regard Hinduism as polytheistic, this view does not take ...
In this present volume the author draws on her study of religious cults and folklore to provide an introduction to the ancient magic and folklore of India. The author also points out that magical elements exist in every religion since it is their presence that makes a system of beliefs into a religion.The magic and cult are essentially the same ,all rites being basically magical.