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Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas?

Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas?

Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas? – Hindus recognize Jesus. He is one of the Prema-Avatars. Also called Avatars of The Divine Love. Although, they recognize Jesus, Hindus don’t celebrate His birthday. Hindus appreciate and respect His teachings. Mostly finding God within. And Jesus’ teaching about helping others. But He is not a significant character in Hinduism.

Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas?

Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas

Although, they don’t celebrate Christmas and Jesus’ birthday, they have another holiday in the same period. It is called Pancha Ganapati. It is a recent holiday. Created in 1985 by Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. This name suggests you that he was a great Hindu Guru. But he was born as Robert Hansen in Oakland, California. He created this festival to become an alternative to Christmas. Therefore, it is not recognized in traditional South Asian Hindus. Only the westerners celebrate it.

Pancha Ganapati is dedicated to Ganesha, the god with the elephant head. Hindus celebrate this festival between December 21 and 25. These 5 days are filled with traditions and rituals. Each day having its own rituals.

Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas? – The Five Days Of Pancha Ganapati

December 21 – the Hindu family gathers to decorate a shrine in their home. They use symbols, lamps, incense, candles, flowers and many more. This day also marks the beginning of practicing love. The family members will create a vibration of love and harmony in their home and around them. On this day, the family performs the grand puja t invoke Ganesha in their home. The family members talk about their relationships and ask for forgiveness for every insult, misdeed or pain they provoked one another.

After forgiving one another, they start to highlight each other’s qualities. The family members then exchange gifts. But they don’t open them. Just place them before Ganesha. The they all pray for the well being of the family.

Pancha Ganapati

December 22 – on this day the approach with love, not the close members of the family, but relatives, neighbors and friends. Hindus present them with gifts and create a vibration of love. On this day they call their relatives and friends ask for forgiveness for any misunderstanding. The other gifts received, will be placed before Ganesha.

Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas?

December 23 – on this day, Hindus approach with love business partners or colleagues. Also, on this day Hindus might also greet their co-workers, customers, employees or employers with gifts. They also try to settle their disputes with those people.

December 24 – on this day the family gathers again. They enjoy and celebrate art, music and dance. Because Ganesha is the patron of these things. The family shares and enjoys hymns, prayers, mantras and arts. They also discuss the Dharma. And place more gifts before Ganesha.

December 25 – on this day the whole family feels the love. They are aware of Ganesha’s grace and love. On this day the gifts are opened. And everyone is calm and free of stress. They feel love and tranquility. This day inspires everyone. And fills them with optimism for the next year.

In conclusion, now you know the answer to Does Hinduism Celebrate Christmas? Well, they don’t. But the Hindus for western countries created a festival that has the same message as Christmas. A great alternative to approach others with love and compassion.

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