To What extent can an outsider viewing a religious festival or ceremony understand the concept of the religion

Hinduism like many religions becomes a way of life for its followers. Individuals incorporate their beliefs into their daily routines. A non-Hindu person would view the daily ritual and worship as a method of prayer, but the reason behind the method of worship would be unknown. Viewing the methods of worship without any insight of the religion only gives a minimal understanding of the religion in question.

Durga Pooja is a Hindu festival that is celebrated all over India. The festival calls for vast celebrations and state holidays. It has significant meanings to its presence but to a person who is just observing without any prior knowledge it may seem like a festival such as Christmas, which is celebrated not solely for religious purposes. Preparations begin a month in advance, there is a lot shopping done, cards are bought and sent, and new idols of deities worshipped are bought.

There are different aspects to the festival that are carried out over the ten day period th...