Hinduism, a religious tradition of Indian origin, comprising the beliefs and practices of the Hindus. Some have compared Hinduism's indifference to the history of a religious idea or practice to a scientist's indifference to the history of science. What is of value to both is the idea or practice as such. This difficulty arises from Hinduism's universal world-view and its willingness to accept and celebrate diverse philosophies, deities, symbols, and practices. A religion that emphasises similarities and shared characteristics rather than differences has a difficult time setting itself apart-unless this very quality is considered its defining feature. This encyclopaedia consisting of ten volumes discusses in detail about all the aspects of Hinduism and Hindu World.