Topic Research

Holi - 

This is the popular Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, and is known by a variety of different names such as the "Festival of Love" and the "Festival of Color". Its celebration can be attributed to history that involves both Krishna and Vishnu. 

Rama Navani -

This is the Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Rama. I will focus on the history of what they used to do on this holy day and the deeper significance that the day has. 

Ganesh Chatruthi - 

This is the Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of famous deity Ganesh to earth. The holiday includes many things such as the formation of clay models of Ganesh, prayers, and sweets. I will focus on the origination of the holiday and why it is so celebrated. 

Sources are in blue

Holi - The Festival of Color 

Topic Brainstorm

Brainstorm Ideas

Reincarnation: The topic of reincarnation has always fascinated me but I have never known truly what the details of it are and how these beliefs differ across different cultures and religions. My interest in reincarnation was sparked back in high school, where one of my Spanish teachers had believed in reincarnation, claiming that he would become a musician in his next life. The idea has been around for centuries and was held by profound historical figures such as Plato, Socrates, and Pythagorus. I would definitely like to learn more about the topic throughout the semester. 

Temples: I find Hindu Temples extraordinarily interesting. They take many different shapes and forms but always have the universal theme of connection between man and the divine. The concept of temples and architecture being used as a supplement to worship is fantastic and it is something I would enjoy diving into. Many temples incorporate all aspects of life from fire and water down to femininity and masculinity, among many many more. 

Vishnu and Lakshmi: Vishnu and Lakshmi are two major components of Indian Epics, being some of the major deities of Hinduism. Vishnu is known to protect the Dharma and their principles in times of destruction and chaos, while Lakshmi is known to lead you to your ultimate goals. I think the story of these two deities will be something interesting to learn about over the course of the semester. Their reach also goes beyond just Hinduism, with their stories transcending into other religions such as Buddhism. 

Krishna: Krishna is one of the most prominent and widely known deities of Hinduism and is celebrated every year by Hindus. He is referred to as a supreme god, and is respected amongst all Hindus. There are many stories about Krishnu and I would like to learn more about his legend. 

Krishna