GCSE Religious Studies podcasts - Hinduism

Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m Lauren Layfield. I’m a TV and radio presenter, and your host for this series on Hinduism.

We’ll be exploring some of the key beliefs and practices you may come across in your GCSE studies, and in this episode, we’re exploring how God, or the Ultimate Reality, is understood in Hinduism. Joining me to do so is my brilliant co-host, Vallisa Chauhan. Hi Vallisa!

Vallisa: Hi Lauren. I’m so excited to be here!

Lauren: Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself?

Vallisa: Yes, I am a broadcaster, presenting on radio stations like BBC Asian Network. And I have been raised in the Hindu faith. Growing up, my great grandma had a large temple in her house where people would come to seek blessings. So, my faith has been around me for my whole life and I’m looking forward to telling you more about it.

Lauren: Sounds amazing, and before we get into those details, make sure you grab a pen, some paper, or your notes app, because throughout the episode, we’ll highlight some key ideas that you might want to jot down.

Vallisa: And keep listening until the end, because there’ll be a quick quiz!

Lauren: So Vallisa, Hinduism is one of the world’s major religions, isn’t it?

Vallisa: That’s right. It’s actually one of the oldest of the major religions, with its roots going back thousands of years. There are over a billion Hindus worldwide, and India has the largest population of Hindus.

Lauren: That is really helpful, and are there different branches of Hinduism?

Vallisa: Yes Lauren. Hinduism is very diverse. There are different branches, such as Vaishnavism and Shaivism, the key difference being the Hindu deity they focus on during worship. But there are some fundamental ideas that most Hindus follow when it comes to worship.

For example, Hinduism teaches us to worship one, single ultimate divine reality, called Brahman. This idea of worshipping one divine reality is called ‘monotheism’ - mono meaning one. In Hinduism, Brahman is often described as a divine consciousness or supreme reality, responsible for all existence.

Lauren: And are there different ways to think about this belief in Brahman?

Vallisa: Yes, there are different ways Hindus understand Brahman. I’m going to talk about two key interpretations; Nirguna Brahman, and Saguna Brahman.

Lauren: Ok let’s start with Nirguna Brahman. What is that belief?

Vallisa: Nirguna Brahman is the belief that Brahman, the ultimate reality, has no physical form and is beyond human understanding. Nirguna Brahman teaches that Brahman cannot be described in human terms and is eternal and unchanging. Hindus who follow Nirguna Brahman focus on experiencing this formless reality, often through meditation rather than through images or physical representation.

Lauren: And what about the Saguna Brahman belief?

Vallisa: Another way that Brahman can be understood is Saguna Brahman. Saguna teaches that Brahman does have a physical, personal form. Many believe that Brahman has lots of different aspects and characteristics. Hindus who follow Saguna may use deities, like Vishnu and Shiva, to help understand these many parts of Brahman’s nature. We’ll talk more about deities in this next section.

Lauren: Okay thanks for explaining that, Vallisa. And for more information on the many interpretations of Brahman and other Hindu beliefs, head to the Bitesize website. Just search for ‘Bitesize GCSE Hinduism’.

(Sound of Hindu prayer)

Lauren: Vallisa, you mentioned deities just now. Could you tell me more about the role of deities for some Hindu worship?

Vallisa: Of course I can! For many Hindus who understand Brahman in the physical form (Saguna Brahman) deities are divine entities that they may worship. Some might describe deities as gods or goddesses, but throughout this series we'll refer to them as deities. Deities in Hinduism include entities such as Vishnu, Shiva, and Brahma who symbolise aspects of Brahman.

Lauren: Okay got it. So, what is the connection between deities and Brahman in Hinduism?

Vallisa: Well, many Hindus worship one or more deities as a way of understanding and connecting with Brahman. This idea of worshipping many deities is called ‘polytheism’ - poly meaning ‘many’. Although Hindus may worship different deities, the deities are understood as expressions of the one ultimate reality, Brahman. In this way, Hindus can believe in both monotheism and polytheism.

Lauren: Ok so could you give some examples of some of the deities Hindus might worship?

Vallisa: Of course! In Hinduism, when worship involves a deity, it's called 'puja'. There are lots and lots of deities that Hindus may worship during puja, but the most commonly worshiped ones are referred to as the Trimurti, or the three forms. These three male deities represent the three most significant parts of Brahman. They are; Brahma (The Creator), Vishnu (The Preserver), and Shiva (The Destroyer).

Lauren: Can you tell me more about these three deities?

Vallisa: Yes, I can. Brahma, The Creator is the part of Brahman responsible for bringing all living beings into existence. Brahma is usually depicted with four heads and four arms. He’s often holding sacred texts in his hand.

Lauren: And what about Vishnu?

Vallisa: Vishnu is the preserver and protector. He is responsible for creating and maintaining balance in the world. Vishnu is often depicted with a human body and often has blue skin and four arms.

Lauren: And Shiva, the Destroyer?

Vallisa: Shiva is associated with destruction, but in Hinduism that isn’t negative. Destruction is about transformation and renewal. Shiva removes obstacles and allows new things to emerge. In images, Shiva often has three eyes, the third eye giving him an inward vision. He’ll often have a snake around his neck and have his weapon, a three-pronged spear or trident, nearby.

Lauren: And you can see images of the deities we’ve talked about on the Bitesize website. All you need to do is search for ‘Bitesize GCSE Hinduism deities’.

(Sound of puja chanting)

Lauren: So Vallisa, can you tell us how Hindus decide which deity to worship?

Vallisa: Great question Lauren. Hindus often worship different deities at different times. It might be a particular festival. For example, during Diwali, Hindus often worship Lakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity. Or some Hindus may be praying for something specific.

For example, if they’re starting a new job and want a smooth first day, they might worship the deity Ganesha, who like Shiva is also a mover of obstacles. In my own home, I pray to Ganesha first, at the beginning of all rituals, so that I can remove obstacles before anything else begins.

Lauren: OK so do some groups of Hindus worship certain deities more than others?

Vallisa: Yes! Some groups, or branches, of Hinduism do have a particular focus on certain deities. The two largest branches of Hinduism are Shaivism and Vaishnavism. The followers of Shaivism view the deity Shiva as their Supreme Lord. Remember Shiva is the Destroyer. And followers of Vaishnavism see the deity Vishnu as their Supreme Lord. Vishnu as in the Preserver.

Lauren: OK so how might puja be different for followers of Shaivism and Vaishnavism?

Vallisa: Well, it’s mostly about where the focus of the worship goes. In Shaivism, the focus is on Shiva, and in Vaishnavism, it’s on Vishnu, though all deities are still respected.

Lauren: And could you talk a bit about why puja worship is significant for Hindus?

Vallisa: Yes definitely. Worshipping deities through puja can help Hindus feel connected to Brahman. We can reflect on different aspects of Brahman by focusing on a particular deity. Puja allows us to put aside any ego, and to think only about Brahman the supreme being, and our connection to the deities. It also brings together our community as some Hindus practice puja together, especially during festival times.

Lauren: And we’ll talk more about puja and what it might entail in our episode on worship and rituals. You can listen to that, and all episodes in this series, by searching ‘Bitesize Hinduism’ on BBC Sounds. Vallisa, are there any other key Hindu beliefs about Brahman?

Vallisa: Yes, another key belief in Hinduism is that each person has a soul or inner self. We call that Atman. The Atman is separate to the physical part of a person. Hinduism teaches that the Atman, or soul, is connected to Brahman, the ultimate divine reality. This idea appears in the Hindu scripture the Bhagavad Gita, chapter 10, verse 20. It says, “I am the soul, which dwells in the heart of all beings.” This reflects the belief that Brahman is present within everyone.

Lauren: Ok and can you tell me more about the Atman, Vallisa?

Vallisa: In Hinduism we believe in the samsara cycle. That’s the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Hinduism teaches that after you die, your soul, or the Atman, is reborn into another physical being. It might be another person or an animal, for example. This is called reincarnation.

So, the Atman is the part of us that continues after we die. This cycle of birth, death, and rebirth continues until you can break free of the cycle. That’s the ultimate goal for many Hindus.

Lauren: Ok so the aim is to leave the cycle of samsara?

Vallisa: Yes. The goal is to exit the cycle of samsara so you will no longer go through the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Breaking free from the cycle is called ‘moksha’. I know I’m introducing quite a few terms here but stick with me. I’ll explain. Hinduism teaches that when moksha happens, the individual soul, or the Atman, becomes one with Brahman, the ultimate divine reality.

Lauren: So how can you reach moksha and gain freedom from the cycle of birth, death and rebirth?

Vallisa: Hinduism teaches that once you’ve overcome your own selfish desires, have lived a moral life and fulfilled all your duties, you can achieve moksha and your Atman will be one with Brahman. But it is vital for those who practise not to desire moksha, otherwise it cannot be achieved!

Lauren: You can read more on the cycle of life, death, and rebirth within Hinduism on the Bitesize website. Just search for Bitesize GCSE Hinduism.

Vallisa: Ok Lauren, can I put you to the test with this quick quiz?

Lauren: Yes please, I am ready! Grab a pen and some paper or just your notes app and write down your answers with me right now!

Vallisa: And you can always pause this episode if you need more time to think. Right, first question. What do Hindus call the divine consciousness or ultimate divine being they worship?

Lauren: I know this one! And that would be Brahman.

Vallisa: That is correct, well done! Right next question. What is a deity within Hinduism?

Lauren: Yes, so a deity is a divine entity that represents a part of Brahman. And many Hindus use deities during worship to focus prayer.

Vallisa: Another correct answer, well done Lauren! And the final question. Can you explain what the Atman is in Hinduism?

Lauren: Yes, in Hinduism the Atman is a person’s inner soul or spirit.

Vallisa: That’s it! The Atman is connected to Brahman.

Lauren: Thank you so much for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Vallisa: In the next one, we’ll be looking at how the Hindu faith is expressed through worship and rituals.

Lauren: Yes, that’s right, and remember it’s not just Religious Studies podcasts that you can listen to. There are other subjects like English, Science, and History for you. Just search GCSE Bitesize on BBC Sounds.

Vallisa: See you next time!

Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m your host, Lauren Layfield. I’m a TV and Radio presenter, and this series is all about Hinduism.

We’re exploring the key beliefs and practices you may come across, and in this episode, we’re looking at how the Hindu faith is expressed through worship and rituals. And we’re very lucky. We’re joined by Vallisa Chauhan who is going to help us explore some of these topics.

Vallisa: Hi Lauren! As a broadcaster, you might hear me on the radio. And a big part of my life is my faith. I’ve been raised Hindu and I remember spending afternoons at my grandma’s house worshipping and learning about Hindu rituals, so I am excited to share my experiences with you.

Lauren: And we’re excited to hear them. But before we get into any of the details, make sure you grab a pen, some paper, or just your notes app, because throughout the episode, we’ll highlight key ideas you might want to jot down.

Vallisa: And stay tuned until the end of the episode, because we’ll be doing a quick quiz to test what you’ve learnt!

Lauren: Vallisa, can you tell us about worship in Hinduism?

Vallisa: Of course I can! During worship, Hindus show respect and devotion to Brahman, the ultimate divine being. Worship can take place at home with smaller, more personal rituals, or in temples, surrounded by community. One form of worship I take part in daily is puja.

Lauren: Puja. Now I remember we touched on this in our episode on Hindu understandings of God. And remember you can listen to that episode, and all the others in this series, over on the BBC Sounds app. You just need to search for Bitesize GCSE Hinduism. So, can you tell me more about puja please, Vallisa?

Vallisa: Puja is a form of worship where Hindus show devotion to one or more deities, or divine entities. For many Hindus, the deities represent different aspects of Brahman.

Lauren: And where might puja worship take place?

Vallisa: Puja is commonly done in the home, and it’s a part of daily life for many Hindus. We may worship in front of a shrine, in a clean and dedicated space, to show respect to our chosen deity. Having this at home also means families can participate in worship together.

Lauren: So, what does puja mean for your family?

Vallisa: Well, my great-grandmother and my nan were both deeply devoted, and they spent a considerable amount of time worshipping at home, especially on Sundays. Their dedication shaped the spiritual rhythm of our home. Puja became an important part of daily life, bringing a sense of routine and reflection. More than that, it brought the whole family together, particularly on major religious occasions creating memorable moments of unity, devotion, and shared tradition that have stayed with me.

(Sound of puja worship)

Lauren: Now Vallisa, I understand that it can be common to engage all 5 senses during puja. So that’s sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.

Vallisa: Yes Lauren, that’s right. Engaging in all the senses can help deepen focus and create a more immersive experience of worship. Let’s go through some examples from the five senses.

• Sight: Some Hindus worship in front of an image or statue of a deity, known as a ‘murti’, which helps focus their devotion. Common deities to focus on during puja are the Trimurti; Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
• Touch: A red powder called kumkum may be placed on the head of the worshipper, and of the murti. It’s a sign of respect.
• Sound: A bell may be rung at the start of worship to mark the beginning of puja and help focus the mind on the divine.
• Smell: Incense can often be burned to create a peaceful atmosphere and to support concentration during worship.
• Taste: Food, such as fruit, may be offered to the deity. This offering is later shared and eaten. This is called ‘prasad’ or blessed food.

Lauren: It sounds like a feast for the senses! If you would like more information on puja, or anything else we discuss in this series, there are lots more resources on the Bitesize website. All you need to do is search for Bitesize GCSE Hinduism.

(Sounds of mantra)

Lauren: Are there any other key Hindu practices you can tell me about Vallisa?

Vallisa: There’s also bhajan - that’s singing devotional songs or hymns. And japa - that’s repetition of mantras.

Lauren: OK can you talk more about mantras?

Vallisa: Mantras are sacred words or sounds that are repeated lots of times. In Hinduism, a mantra can go from a singular syllable like “om”, to a full phrase like the Gayatri Mantra which goes like this:

“Om Bhur Bhuvaḥ Suvaha Tat-savitur Vareñyaṃ Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi Dhiyo Yonaḥ Prachodayāt”

The Gayatri Mantra is a prayer focusing on wisdom and devotion. Typically, you will hear mantras chanted or sung, rather than just spoken.

Lauren: And why are they so significant in Hinduism?

Vallisa: Well chanting or singing mantras can be a form of meditation. It helps to calm our minds and focus on our faith. Repeating a mantra helps me to focus on Brahman and worship. For me, I usually chant mantras at home when I need time to take a moment and forget the outside world.

Lauren: OK so we've covered certain types of worship in Hinduism. Vallisa, can we now move on to places of worship. Can you tell me about the Hindu temples?

Vallisa: Yes, I can. A Hindu temple is called a ‘mandir’. They’re a sacred place where Hindus can show devotion to Brahman outside of their home. It is not mandatory to attend the temple but for many, the temple is a sacred space and can really help to focus worship. Many Hindus like to experience the spiritual atmosphere here.

Lauren: And what do Hindu temples look like?

Vallisa: They’re absolutely beautiful and you would love them. Temples vary, but they’re traditionally palace-like structures, often elaborately designed, sometimes with carvings that tell religious stories. Although many deities may be represented in a temple, it will often be dedicated to one deity in particular.

Lauren: Oh yes so certain branches of Hinduism have temples dedicated to different deities, don’t they?

Vallisa: Yes Lauren! It may not be the only deity they worship, but certain branches may have a deity they primarily worship. Followers of Shaivism see the deity Shiva as their Supreme Lord and therefore their temple will be dedicated to Shiva. And followers of Vaishnavism primarily worship Vishnu as their Supreme Lord and may attend a temple dedicated to Vishnu.

Lauren: And what are the rituals like in a Hindu temple then?

Vallisa: In a temple, rituals might include things like; removing shoes before you enter the place of worship, ringing the temple bell next to the shrine, walking clockwise around the shrine of the deity before prayer, and displaying sacred symbols with powerful meanings in Hinduism. One example is the lotus flower.

Lauren: I would love to know more about the lotus flower as a symbol.

Vallisa: The lotus is a flower that grows from muddy water but rises to the top and when it blooms it is clean and beautiful. Because of this, it’s often seen as a sacred symbol representing purity, and spiritual growth. The lotus is commonly associated with deities like Vishnu and Lakshmi, who are sometimes shown seated or standing on a lotus, representing divine beauty and purity.

Lauren: It does sound like symbols are really important within your faith.

Vallisa: Definitely. There’s a quote from the Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 9 Verse 27, which says:

“Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer, do it as an offering to me.”

This quote emphasises the importance of turning daily activities into spiritual offerings to Brahman. Everyday things, like eating and praying, are a way for us to show devotion to Brahman, and act selflessly.

Lauren: And there are more examples of symbols within Hinduism on the Bitesize website - just search ‘Bitesize GCSE Hinduism’. So, we’ve spoken about worship at home, and in temples. Are there any other ways that Hindus show devotion to Brahman?

Vallisa: Yes, there’s also pilgrimage. A pilgrimage is a journey to a place with a religious or spiritual connection. Often it will be a place connected to a sacred story or a deity, like a place they once lived or spent time in. Some Hindus may also make journeys to important mandirs, or in the UK to festival celebrations, as acts of devotion. Other common destinations for pilgrimage are rivers.

Lauren: Can you tell us why rivers are significant in Hinduism?

Vallisa: Well rivers are mentioned throughout sacred Hindu texts like the Rig Veda, where they are presented as givers of life. So, some pilgrimages involve visiting rivers like the River Ganges, one of the holiest rivers in India. It’s believed by many to flow directly to earth from Lord Shiva’s hair to purify human beings. In some scriptures it’s referred to as the Mother Ganges. Tens of millions of people come to the Ganges each year with the hope of purifying themselves and working towards moksha - that’s freedom from the cycle of birth, death and rebirth.

Lauren: I think it's really inspiring to think of so many people going to one place for the same purpose.

Vallisa: It really is, and during events like Kumbh Mela, which is a big Hindu festival, people from all different backgrounds come to the water for ritual bathing and spiritual purification.

Lauren: Ok Vallisa, I think it’s time you put me to the test with a quick quiz.

Vallisa: Let’s do it. Grab a pen and paper or your notes app and write your answers down too. And pause this episode if you need time to think.

So, the first question. What do we call the key Hindu ritual of worship which can involve awakening the five senses?

Lauren: Ok I know this. It is Puja!

Vallisa: Correct, well done! Puja can be done at home, or in the temple. Next question. What do we call the words or phrases that might be repeated during Hindu worship?

Lauren: Those would be mantras.

Vallisa: Perfect! And the final question. What do we call the journey that some Hindus may take to a place with a religious or spiritual connection?

Lauren: That’s a pilgrimage, and an example would be the journey lots of Hindus take to the River Ganges.

Vallisa: Exactly, top marks Lauren!

Lauren: Thanks for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Vallisa: In the next episode, we’ll be talking about festivals and their significance within Hinduism. I can’t wait for that.

Lauren: Me too and remember we have series on other faiths that you might be studying, so check those out too. Just search for Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies over on BBC Sounds.

Vallisa: See you next time!

Lauren: We’ll see you next time!

Lauren: Hey and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m your host Lauren Layfield. I’m a TV and Radio presenter, and this is the series where we explore the key beliefs and practices for your GCSE on Hinduism.

This episode is all about why festivals matter in Hinduism. But I can’t do it alone so I’m really happy to be joined once again by Vallisa Chauhan who is guiding us through this series.

Vallisa: Thanks Lauren and hi everyone. I’m a radio presenter and I'm also a practising Hindu. Festivals have always been a part of my upbringing. They are moments my whole family look forward to throughout the year. And more recently, I’ve been DJing at some Hindu festivals which has been really fun! So, I’m excited to bring some of the beliefs to life for you.

Lauren: Can’t wait for it. Well before we dive into the details, grab a pen, some paper, or your notes app, because throughout the episode, we’ll highlight key ideas you might want to jot down.

Vallisa: And keep on listening until the end, because there will be a quick quiz too!

Lauren: And remember you can listen to all episodes in this series over on the BBC Sounds app. Just search ‘Bitesize GCSE Hinduism’. Right, shall we get into it?

Vallisa: Let’s do it!

Lauren: Vallisa, I would love to hear about how you celebrate your faith. Can you tell me about some of the festivals and holy days?

Vallisa: I’d love to. Hindu festivals are a significant part of our spiritual and cultural life. There are lots of religious celebrations, and they’re all important. But I’ll highlight three in particular; Diwali, Holi, and Navaratri.

Lauren: Ok let's start with Diwali.

Vallisa: Yes, Diwali usually takes place in October or November. Diwali is often called the festival of lights. The name comes from ‘Deepavali’ meaning ‘a row of light’, represented by the rows of small clay lamps, called diyas. They are lit during the festival.

Lauren: And what’s the reason behind the lights during Diwali?

Vallisa: Well, the stories vary across different parts of India, but many share a common theme of good over evil. One well-known origin story, often celebrated in Northern India, comes from the Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic poem. It tells the journey of Prince Rama and his wife Sita.

After being sent into exile, Sita is kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. Rama goes on a journey to rescue her, and with the help of others, he eventually defeats Ravana. When Rama and Sita return, people light rows of lamps to guide them home.

Lauren: I love that story. And what’s the significance of Diwali for Hindus?

Vallisa: Well, this story, like all the stories Hindus may remember during Diwali, represents the triumph of light over darkness - good overcoming evil. During the festival, when we light lamps (or diyas) we are reminded of Rama and Sita’s safe return.

Lauren: Could you tell me more ways that Hindus celebrate Diwali?

Vallisa: Yes of course. Diwali is usually celebrated with activities across five days. Let me run you through each day.

Day one - Many Hindus begin by cleaning their homes and preparing for the festival. As a symbol of good fortune, some Hindus may buy gold items, like jewellery, or new household goods, like kitchen utensils.

Day two - People may decorate their homes with diyas. They might also use colourful powder or sand to make designs on the floor. These are called ‘rangoli’ and I love how, as the years have passed, traditions have adapted to modern life. Now you can even buy pre-made rangoli patterns, making it easier to decorate our homes and still share the same joy through colour and light.

Day three - For many, the main day of the festival. Families gather for Lakshmi puja, a prayer to the deity Lakshmi. Deities are divine entities Hindus may worship. They may pray to Lakshmi in hopes of prosperity as Lakshmi represents wealth and good fortune. On this day, we might have a big meal together and sometimes there are fireworks.

Day four - In some Hindu cultures this is the first day of the New Year. That includes Gujaratis, like my family! We’ll spend time with family and friends, sharing gifts and well wishes. My mum has always said that we should wear new clothes on this day and I won’t lie, I'm totally here for that! I’m also really lucky to still have so many elders in my family, so we spend the day visiting them, surrounded by laughter, warmth, and, of course, lots of delicious food.

Day five - This can be a day dedicated to family bonds. In particular, some Hindu brothers might visit their married sisters. This day is all about love and food. My brother always teases me about not being able to cook, so I like to turn that into a challenge by putting together a full feast just to prove him wrong.

Lauren: And so, you should! That sounds like a really special time, Vallisa, so thank you so much for sharing that with us. And there’s more information on Diwali on the Bitesize website. All you need to do is search Bitesize GCSE Hinduism.

Lauren: So, as we move through the year, what other festivals are important for Hindus?

Vallisa: Let’s fast forward to spring and talk about Holi, the festival of colours!

Lauren: Which I have actually been to in India, and it was absolutely amazing. Can you tell everybody a bit more about it?

Vallisa: Yes, of course I can! During Holi, many Hindus celebrate by gathering with friends and family and throwing coloured powder at each other. It’s a really joyful festival that marks the arrival of spring and also celebrates themes like good overcoming evil. And yes, it’s definitely a good idea to wear old clothes!

Lauren: Oh gosh yeah, I was covered in powder basically. It’s really messy.

Vallisa: It is really messy, but the coloured powder is called ‘gulal’ and the different colours are often associated with special meanings. For example, the red symbolises love, blue represents Krishna - the Hindu deity, and green means new beginnings.

Lauren: And is there a particular story, like with Diwali, behind Holi traditions?

Vallisa: Yes, there is! As with many Hindu festivals, there are different origin stories, all with the common theme of good triumphing over evil. One is the story of Hiranyakashipu, a powerful demon king, and his son Prahlad.

Prahlad remained devoted to the deity Vishnu, despite his father’s attempts to stop him. Hiranyakashipu’s sister, Holika, tried to harm Prahlad by sitting with him in a fire, but she was burned while Prahlad survived. This story is remembered during Holi as a symbol of light overcoming darkness.

(Sounds of Holi celebrations)

Lauren: Vallisa, are there any other traditions during Holi festival?

Vallisa: Yes, there is. The Holi festival typically lasts for two days. There are often bonfires on the first night of Holi, which we call the ‘Holika Dahan’. This involves burning an effigy - that’s a sculpture that will be burnt of Holika. This is to symbolise the story of her defeat when she was burnt in a fire.

Families gather to tell stories and offer prayers. And then the colour throwing starts, known as ‘Rangwali Holi’ and it begins on the second day. The Holi festivities can last longer than two days though, and in some parts of India, like the Braj region in Northern India, festivities can last up to 16 days!

Lauren: Wow that’s a really long time, and what do you love about Holi Vallisa?

Vallisa: Well, what stands out to me most is the atmosphere. No matter how cold it is outside, people continue celebrating, dancing, and playing right until the very end of the event. There’s something really special about this festival and how it brings people together. It’s not just meaningful for Hindus, but it’s also wonderful to see people from all backgrounds joining in and enjoying the celebration, just like you did when you went to India!

Lauren: It was honestly one of the favourite days of my entire life. I absolutely loved it.

Lauren: So Vallisa, we've heard about Diwali and Holi. What was the third festival you wanted to tell us about?

Vallisa: Yes, Navaratri! It’s a nine-day festival that usually takes place in the autumn. It’s dedicated to Durga, a deity often understood as a powerful protector and a symbol of divine feminine energy. Although followers of different Hindu branches, like Shaivism and Vaishnavism, celebrate Navaratri, this festival is particularly important for followers of the branch of Hinduism called Shaktism.

Lauren: Ok so what’s Shaktism?

Vallisa: Well, those who follow Shaktism focus their worship on the deity Shakti who many Hindus believe has different forms, one of which is Durga.

Lauren: You said the Navaratri celebration lasts nine days. Is that significant?

Vallisa: Yes, the deity Durga has nine different forms or manifestations. So, in some parts of the world, one of the nine forms of Durga is worshipped on each night of the festival. In others, it's common to focus on three forms, spending three days worshipping each form.

Lauren: Can you tell me more about the different forms of Durga?

Vallisa: Well, each form represents a different quality, such as strength, compassion, or wisdom. In Hindu stories, Durga takes on these forms to defeat evil forces and restore balance, showing the victory of good over evil. Many Hindus today worship Durga as the supreme divine mother who destroys negativity on Earth just as the other deities can help Hindus overcome their life’s problems.

Lauren: Vallisa, it sounds like all of these festivals are really important for bringing the community together and for reinforcing religious identities.

Vallisa: That’s right. In the Mahabharata, which is an important ancient Indian text, we’re reminded that festivals are beacons of culture and tradition. Festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navaratri bring together not just families, but the wider community. Hindus have been taking part in these celebrations for centuries. For me, they’re more than just a celebration.

These occasions give us a chance to reconnect and express our faith as a family. While Hindu communities are diverse, these occasions often bring people together and create a strong sense of connection, identity, and harmony. It’s always a really special time.

Lauren: And if you’d like more details on any of the festivals we’ve discussed, make sure you head to the Bitesize website and search for Bitesize GCSE Hinduism.

Vallisa: Right Lauren, I think it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Are you ready for a quick quiz?

Lauren: I am, let’s do it. Grab a pen and paper or just your notes app and note your answers down!

Vallisa: First up. Do you remember how many days Diwali lasts for?

Lauren: Yes. Diwali, or the ‘festival of lights’, lasts for five days.

Vallisa: That’s correct! Each of the five days has particular traditions and rituals. Next question. Which festival takes to the streets as people throw coloured powder?

Lauren: That is Holi and it’s the festival of colours!

Vallisa: That’s the one - well done! And finally, what is the name of the deity worshiped during Navaratri?

Lauren: I think that’s Durga and she has nine forms.

Vallisa: Perfect answer!

Lauren: Thanks very much for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Vallisa: Next episode, we’ll be looking at the role of sacred texts in Hinduism.

Lauren: And remember, there are more podcast series on other faiths that you might be studying at GCSE. Just search for Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies on BBC Sounds. And we will see you next time!

Vallisa: Bye!

Lauren: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. My name is Lauren Layfield. As a presenter on the TV and radio I get to talk about lots of different things, and in this series, we’re exploring Hinduism!

In each episode, we go over the key beliefs and practices you may come across in your GCSE, and this episode is all about the role of sacred texts in Hinduism. I do need some help with this though so joining me is my wonderful co-host Vallisa Chauhan.

Vallisa: Hi Lauren! As someone who has been raised Hindu, the traditions and beliefs we’ve been learning about are a part of my daily life. Throughout this series, we’ve been bringing some of these ideas to life and this episode is no exception! Hindu scriptures like the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita can really guide our beliefs and practices, so I’m here to tell you all about them.

Lauren: Well, listen I’ve got loads of questions for you and I’m really excited to learn more today. But before we get into those details, grab a pen, some paper, or you can use your notes app, because throughout the episode we will be highlighting key ideas that you might want to jot down.

Vallisa: And keep on listening until the end, because there’ll be a quick quiz to test your knowledge!

Lauren: So, Vallisa, this episode is all about sacred texts. Let's start by exploring some of these texts and understanding why they're important.

Vallisa: Of course. In Hinduism, there isn't just one single text. Instead, there’s a wide range of scriptures that guide beliefs and practices in different ways. These texts include hymns, philosophical teachings, and stories that have been passed down over time. They’re often grouped into two main categories; Shruti and Smriti.

Lauren: Ok so what is the difference between Shruti and Smriti texts?

Vallisa: Shruti means ‘that which is heard’. These are considered the most authoritative texts and are believed to be divinely revealed, meaning the message has been communicated by a divine being. Because of this, many Shruti texts were originally passed down orally, from people telling them to each other.

They have since been written down and they include important scriptures like the Vedas and, within the Vedas, the Upanishads. We’re going to explain both of those in this episode. Shruti texts form the foundation of Hindu philosophy.

Lauren: Ok and what about Smriti texts?

Vallisa: Smriti means ‘that which is remembered’. These texts were created by humans, often religious teachers or scholars, and were based on moral dilemmas requiring divine guidance. Smriti texts help explain how to live morally, according to the Hindu teachings. Examples include the Ramayana and the Mahabharata which are ancient Hindu epics (poems or stories).

Lauren: So Shruti texts are messages that have been divinely revealed and are different to the Smriti texts which are created and written by humans. So Vallisa, focusing on Shruti first, which texts are part of that?

Vallisa: Well Lauren, Shruti texts are considered the oldest and most authoritative Hindu scriptures. The most important of these are the four Vedas. The Vedas are ancient texts written in Sanskrit and they form the foundation of many Hindu beliefs and practices.

Lauren: Ok can you tell me more about the four Vedas?

Vallisa: Yes, I can. They are four collections of texts, known as the books of knowledge. The four Vedas are called; The Rig Veda (Knowledge of the Verses), The Sama Veda (Knowledge of the Chants or Melodies), The Yajur Veda (Knowledge of the Sacrifice), and The Atharva Veda (Knowledge of the Fire Priest).

Lauren: And what’s actually in these texts?

Vallisa: Well, the Vedas include hymns, prayers, and mantras that are still used in worship today. They also contain guidance on rituals and explore ideas about Hindu philosophy.

(Sound of Vedic reading)

Lauren: And how do the Vedas apply to your daily life, Vallisa?

Vallisa: Well Lauren for me, the Vedas are really about living an ethical life, showing respect to others, supporting your family and community, and leading with kindness in everything you do.

One belief I always try to hold onto is this: no matter how difficult your day might feel, someone else could be going through something even more. So, take something as simple as smiling at a stranger on the street. Well, that small gesture could end up being the best part of their day. That’s the kind of message I take from reading the Vedas.

Lauren: Thank you for sharing that. Now, earlier you mentioned Upanishads, which are contained within the Vedas. Can you tell us more?

Vallisa: Yes Lauren. Each of the four Vedas is made up of a selection of different texts, one of which is the Upanishads. So, you’ll find an Upanishad in each of the four Vedas, often found at the end of each Veda, kind of like a conclusion.

Lauren: Ok and can you explain what the Upanishads say?

Vallisa: The Upanishads are ancient sacred texts which explore spiritual and philosophical ideas. They ask big, profound questions about human existence. So, for example, the Upanishads will explore concepts like Brahman - the divine consciousness, and Atman - the inner self or soul. The Upanishads teach that Brahman is present in all beings through the Atman.

Lauren: Yeah, and we talked about Brahman and the Atman in our episode on Hindu beliefs and traditions. You can listen to that one, and any other episode in this series, over on BBC Sounds. Just search for ‘Bitesize GCSE Hinduism’. So Vallisa, how might Shruti texts, like the Upanishads, like the Vedas, influence everyday life for Hindus?

Vallisa: Well, these texts can influence daily life in different ways. For example, hymns and mantras from the Vedas might be used in prayer and worship. The ideas within them can also guide ethical behaviour and encourage reflection on deeper spiritual questions.

Lauren: So, we’ve spoken about Shruti texts Vallisa. Can you tell me more about the Smriti texts? Smriti, if I understand it right, means ‘that which is remembered’?

Vallisa: That’s right Lauren. Many Hindus are familiar with the Smriti texts because they’re often written in a more accessible and story-based way. One well-known example is the Bhagavad Gita, which is often translated as ‘The Song of the Lord’. The Bhagavad Gita, also known as ‘the Gita’ is one part of the ancient epic poem the Mahabharata.

Lauren: Okay so that’s the poem as a whole, and then the Gita is a section from it. But that’s really popular that section, isn’t it?

Vallisa: It is popular because it offers guidance on how to live morally. The text is a conversation between Krishna and the warrior Arjuna, which takes place in the battle in the Mahabharata. Through this dialogue, Krishna teaches Arjuna about duty, selflessness, and different spiritual paths, helping readers reflect on how to live a meaningful life.

Lauren: And can you tell me some of the lessons that the text covers?

Vallisa: Sure! A major theme of the Gita is Dharma, which means Duty and Righteousness. It teaches Hindus that they must fulfil their duties in life selflessly. Failure to do so is believed to have negative spiritual consequences.

Lauren: Dharma seems like quite an important concept in Hindu scripture.

Vallisa: It is. Dharma is often understood as a person’s duty in life. The Gita largely focuses on dharma and devotion to Brahman. In chapter 18 verse 66 of the Gita it says, “Leave all things behind and come to me for your salvation.”

Lauren: What other Hindu concepts does the Gita explore Vallisa?

Vallisa: Well, the Gita teaches that selfless action is really important, but that Hindus shouldn’t let the desire for reward motivate these good actions. In Chapter 2, verse 47 of the Gita we hear, “You have a right to perform your duties, but not to the fruits of your actions.”

Lauren: So, would you say that the texts are teaching you important lessons for basically living a good life?

Vallisa: They are Lauren. And the way we interpret the texts and their messages are different for everyone. For me texts like the Bhagavad Gita guide me to live with purpose and integrity, to do my duty without expecting rewards, and to stay calm and balanced through both the highs and lows of life.

Lauren: Thank you so much, Vallisa, for taking us through some of the sacred texts in Hinduism. I think I’m ready now for you to put me to the test with a quick quiz!

Vallisa: Great! I’ll ask the questions and you can grab a pen, paper, or your notes app to write down your answers.

Lauren: And remember you can pause the episode if you need more time on this.

Vallisa: OK first question. Can you name the two categories of Hindu sacred texts?

Lauren: Yes. The two categories are Shruti and Smriti.

Vallisa: Perfect, well done! Next question. What is the name of the collection of Shruti texts often described as the books of knowledge?

Lauren: Yes, I remember this one. It is a collection of four texts known as the Vedas.

Vallisa: That’s it! And final question. Can you tell me the name of the Smriti text which offers guidance for Hindu ethical behaviour?

Lauren: Yes, we’ve quoted it a couple of times in this episode. It’s the Bhagavad Gita, or the Gita.

Vallisa: That is spot on, the Gita is a really important text in Hinduism. It is part of the larger ancient epic - the Mahabharata. Well done, Lauren!

Lauren: Thank you! Thank you for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Vallisa: Next time, we’re looking at exam skills.

Lauren: Yes, that’s right. That is going to be really really helpful for you. And remember it’s not just Religious Studies podcasts that you can listen to. There are series on subjects like English, History, and Science. All you need to do is search for Bitesize on BBC Sounds, and we’ll see you next time!

Vallisa: Bye!

Lauren: Hey and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. This series we’ve been exploring Hinduism, looking at the beliefs and practices you may come across in your exam.

I’m your host, Lauren Layfield. I’m a broadcaster, presenting on the TV and radio, and in this episode, we’re looking at exam skills. I’m here as always with my brilliant co-host and practising Hindu, Vallisa Chauhan.

Vallisa: Hi Lauren! Yes, I am a radio presenter, and I’ve been raised in the Hindu faith for my whole life. And in this episode, we’ll be using some of what we’ve learned across this Hinduism series to help you prepare for your exam.

Lauren: Yeah, we’ll start by looking at different question types, and how you might respond to key command words.

Vallisa: And then we’ll look at how you might approach those command words, thinking about the types of questions and the number of marks available.

Lauren: And lastly, we’ll look at how you can use quotes from religious sources of wisdom, like the Vedas and Bhagavad Gita, within your answers.

Vallisa: Grab your pen and paper or notes app because this episode is all about helping you feel confident for the exam.

Lauren: And remember you can find podcasts covering loads of GCSE subjects, from English to History, and other Religious Studies podcasts as well! Just search Bitesize GCSE on the BBC Sounds app.

Vallisa: Let’s dive in!

Lauren: Before answering any question in your exam, you need to know how to approach it, don’t you?

Vallisa: Good point Lauren. A good way to do this is to understand the different command words. These are verbs or phrases that usually come at the start of the question, and they guide you on how to respond.

Lauren: Now, we can’t cover every command word in this episode, but some common ones that you might see in your exam are ‘Describe’, ‘Explain’ or ‘Evaluate’.

Vallisa: Can I give you a tip Lauren?

Lauren: Yes, please Vallisa!

Vallisa: Before you write anything, you should read the question carefully, then circle the command word, and underline key parts of the question.

Lauren: Yeah, that’s nice. And another tip is to keep checking back on the question as you write. That way, you can make sure you’re answering the question according to the command word.

Vallisa: Now, different exam boards could ask questions differently and we’re not predicting what will come up in your exams. We’re just giving you a broad explanation of some of the question types that might appear.

Lauren: Now that we have introduced command words, I think we should look at how they might be used in an exam.

Vallisa: Good idea. Once you’ve identified the command word, you need to figure out what the question is asking you to do in your answer.

Lauren: Yes. Lower mark questions want short answers that ask you to recall some key knowledge. Mid-mark questions usually want you to explain ideas in a bit more detail. And higher mark questions are looking for you to balance different viewpoints and then reach a conclusion.

Vallisa: The number of marks gives you an idea of the level of detail you need to give and how long you should spend writing your answer.

Lauren: So, let’s start with lower mark questions, which may use command words like ‘describe’.

Vallisa: Describe questions usually want a ‘what’, not a ‘why’, so just keep it factual.

Lauren: They're more focussed on knowledge recall and are usually worth fewer marks, so we’re looking for short answers that get straight to the point. You probably don’t need loads of detail.

Let’s look at an example. In our episode on worship and rituals, we talked about some key Hindu practices. So how about this Vallisa. ‘Describe the role of puja within Hinduism.’

Vallisa: An answer to that could be, ‘Within Hinduism, puja is a ritual worship usually performed at home or in temples to show devotion to a deity, often involving offerings and prayer.’

Lauren: That answer is really good because it’s short and factual. Usually, a sentence or two depending on marks is enough for this kind of question.

Vallisa: Let’s move on to questions that start with the command word ‘explain’. If the question starts with ‘explain’ it wants you to give reasons, so you’ll want to include words and phrases like ‘because’, ‘therefore’, or ‘this means that’.

Lauren: These questions are usually worth more marks and want a bit more detail than the lower mark questions.

Vallisa: So, let’s have a look at an example based on what we’ve learnt throughout the series.

Lauren: Ok try this one Vallisa. ‘Explain one Hindu belief around the nature of Brahman’.

Vallisa: How about, ‘One Hindu belief about the nature of Brahman is Nirguna Brahman, which means that Brahman has no recognisable form or human qualities. Some Hindus believe Brahman is beyond human understanding and cannot be represented physically.

This means that they often focus on meditation rather than worshipping deities, because they aim to connect with a formless, ultimate reality.’

Lauren: Yeah, that was great! You clearly laid out the connection there between what Hindus who practise Nirguna Brahman believe and what that actually means in practice. And then by using terms like ‘this means that’ and ‘because’ you explained the reasons you gave.

Let’s move onto higher mark questions. So here you might see the command word ‘evaluate’.

Vallisa: These questions want you to provide arguments to support the statement given, as well as arguments to counter it.

Lauren: Yeah, you need to give reasons, evidence, and examples for both sides. These examples could be quotes from religious texts.

Vallisa: You’ll then finish with a conclusion, which needs to refer back to the question.

Lauren: These question types will probably be worth more marks and require a longer answer. So, let’s look at an example. ‘Festivals, such as Diwali and Holi, are more important than pilgrimages within Hinduism. Evaluate this statement’. Vallisa, how might you have a go at this one?

Vallisa: Well Lauren I would start by giving reasons that support the statement, and then ones which counter it, and I’d make sure I give evidence for both sides.

So, my possible points that support the statement that ‘festivals, such as Diwali and Holi, are more important than pilgrimages within Hinduism’ could be:

‘Festivals like Diwali and Holi are central to Hindu practice, reflecting key teachings from Hindu sacred texts.

For example, Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, and good over evil. Festivals also offer a chance for people to connect with their wider community and reinforce family bonds. The sacred text Mahabharata presents festivals as important events which strengthen community, cultural identity and dharma. Festivals continue traditions that have been followed for generations, making them an important part of Hindu culture.’

Lauren: That is a really good start. So, what about points that then counter the statement?

Vallisa: Well, I could say that:

‘Hindu pilgrimages offer a more personal spiritual connection than festivals. A pilgrimage to The River Ganges, for example, offers Hindus the chance to purify themselves and work towards moksha - a personal goal to liberate themselves from the cycle of samsara.

Pilgrimage can offer a more personal spiritual experience for Hindus. They may find a greater connection with places and communities connected to their key deities and their worship. Pilgrimages are not just about visiting sacred places but also about experiencing and observing the religious practices of communities based there.’

Lauren: Those are really strong points as well. And then you should finish with your own justified conclusion based on the evidence. You don’t need to be critical of any festivals or practices, just present some facts for each side.

When studying GCSE Religious Studies, you’ll have heard and learnt some religious sources of wisdom and authority. So, what are the sources of wisdom Vallisa?

Vallisa: A source of wisdom could be a story or a quote from a sacred Hindu text like the Bhagavad Gita, the Mahabharata or the Vedas.

Lauren: Yeah, we had a whole episode on Hindu sacred texts, didn’t we? You don’t need to remember lots of long quotes and where they’re from, but rather a few which are short, meaningful and that you understand. For higher mark questions, it's a good idea to include a source of wisdom to get those higher marks.

Vallisa: And we’ve been using examples of sources of wisdom right through this series so let’s go through some you might use.

When we looked at how Brahman is understood within Hinduism, we heard a quote from the Bhagavad Gita chapter 10 verse 20:

“I am the soul, which dwells in the heart of all beings.”

Lauren: Yeah, this quote is useful when talking about the Hindu belief that Brahman is found in all things in the universe and is present in all Hindus through the concept of Atman.

Vallisa: In our episode on Hindu worship and rituals, we referenced the Bhagavad Gita chapter 9 verse 27:

“Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer, do it as an offering to me.”

Lauren: That quote’s really helpful for understanding daily Hindu worship, that daily activities can be viewed as spiritual offerings to Brahman.

Vallisa: And yes, when learning about Hindu festivals, we heard a summary from Mahabharata - an important ancient Hindu text. The message is that festivals are beacons of culture and tradition. That demonstrates the importance of festivals in bringing Hindu communities together and showing devotion to Brahman.

And finally, in our episode on Hindu sacred texts, we heard a quote from the Bhagavad Gita chapter 18 verse 66:

“Leave all things behind and come to me for your salvation.”

Lauren: Yeah, that quote helps us to understand the ultimate duty in life for Hindus - their devotion to Brahman. And that sacred texts like Bhagavad Gita are used to spread that message.

When using sources of wisdom like these, the key is not just writing the quote. You also need to show why it’s relevant.

Vallisa: It would be helpful to look at an example question and answer it using a source of wisdom.

Lauren: Yes, good idea. So Vallisa, try this one. ‘Explain why daily worship is important for Hindus’.

Vallisa: Well, a possible answer using a source of wisdom, could be:

‘Daily worship is an important way for Hindus to show devotion to Brahman. The Bhagavad Gita, chapter 9 verse 27 says “Whatever you do, whatever you eat, whatever you offer, do it as an offering to me.”

Through daily activities, including worship in the home, Hindus fulfil their duties to worship Brahman and build a personal relationship with the divine.’

Lauren: That is a great answer. It referred directly to the Bhagavad Gita to explain the importance of daily worship. Now, for more resources, like quotations, quizzes and flashcards, all you need to do is go to the Bitesize website and search for GCSE Religious Studies.

Vallisa: Thank you for listening to this Religious Studies series on Hinduism. We hope you are feeling confident ahead of your exam!

Lauren: Yeah, listen to this series as many times as you need to, and remember we have series on other religions that you might be studying as well. Just search for Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies on BBC Sounds.

Vallisa: Thanks for listening, and good luck!

Lauren: Good luck!