Religious patterns in India have developed over a long period of time and over a vast geographical area. Several strands converge, merge, seemingly disappear, and re-emerge to form a tapestry of diverse texture, color, and stark imagery. Suffering and sorrow stand along side of bliss and ecstasy. Pleasure is embraced as well as asceticism. The ups and downs of historical conditioning and cruel destinies are recognized as well as the need for compassion and non-violence. The rich texture of religious development in India is displayed from its very beginnings to its contemporary expressions.…
