3. Hindu Arts and Symbols

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Download PDF: PCT-003 Hindu Arts & Culture

  • Hindus use dance to tell religious stories, such as the stories of Krishna and the story of Rama and Sita.
  • The dancer uses mudras (hand-signs or gestures) to tell the story.
  • Drama is another way Hindus tell their ideas about God and the world.
  • Music is very important in worship. ‘Bhajan’ means ‘religious song.’ ‘Kirtan’ is the chanting of mantras (prayers). These are often done during ‘arti.’
  • Here are some important musical instruments: Hand cymbals (used in temples for worship); tablas (a set of two drums); mridanga (a drum with 2 heads); harmonium (a small organ, pumped by hand); Sitar (a stringed instrument, used in classical Indian music); Shenai (a wind-instrument played at weddings); flute (played by Krishna).
  • Hinduism is well-known for its colourful paintings, and its rangoli patterns.
  • It also has many symbols, which can be drawn. Important symbols are: (1) Om, which looks like a ‘3’, (2) hands together in prayer; (3) the swastika, (4) the lotus flower; (5) the cow (6) the trident (three-pointed spear).
  • Look at this card and the other ones in the set (there are 15 altogether) and try to find all these six symbols. Perhaps you will find others also!
  • Hindus use all their five senses in worship (the five senses are the eyes, ears, tongue, nose and sense of touch). Find out how they do this.