ABSTRACT
Hinduism, originally called the “Eternal Religion,” is one of the oldest of all living religions. Unlike other major religions, Hinduism has no prophet as its founder. Vedas are the principal and the most authoritative scriptures, and are often referred to by the term Shruti. The scriptures variously describe Brahman as Infinite Existence, Infinite Consciousness, Infinite Bliss and Supreme Self. They also explain the identity of Brahman with atman , the in-dwelling self of all beings. The establishment of the Monistic (Advaita) system of philosophy by Sankara is a great landmark in this period. The medieval period in Hinduism is characterized by the spread of the Devotional movement, known as Vaisnavism. Raja Rammohan Roy was at the forefront of the modern Hindu reform movement. He fought against the conservative elements in Hindu society and all the social evils practiced in the name of religion.
