In India, the birthplace of some of the world’s major faiths and home to many more, religion is a way of life, existing as much in temples, mosques, churches and wayside shrines as it does in social laws, cultural practices and the political arena. Bringing this complex and fascinating subject into easy access through essential facts and figures, clear, concise definitions and up-to-date information on recent religio-political developments, The Penguin Dictionary of Religion in India is the first single-volume dictionary to provide a comprehensive account of every major religion practised in the country today. From Somnatha Temple and Babri Masjid to Golden Temple and Akali Movement ; from Shariat and Eucharist to Shabbat and Nirvana ; from Dalai Lama and Adi Shankaracharya to Osho and Art of Living —this meticulously researched work of reference covers a vast range of topics, placing each faith in its historical context and tracing its evolution from its inception up to the present. • Incisive profiles of founders and key patrons, deities, saints, mystics and philosophers • Insightful information on lesser-known tribal and regional forms of worship, as well as important festivals, customs and rituals • Extensive cross-referencing and a comprehensive bibliography that refer users to related material for in-depth study• Religion-specific lists of entries for those with specialized interests.
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