Sanatana Dharma, Hinduism, Misconception, Vedic Scriptures, Bhagavad-Gita, Upanishads, Varna, Caste, Brahmin, Sudhra, Vashya, Kshatriya, women, discrimination, soul, self-realisation, Mulakkaram

Background and Aims:  Sanatana Hindu Dharma is considered as one of the oldest religions in the world.  Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions, misconstrued information, and inappropriate practices, beliefs and propaganda surrounding this Sanatana religion and philosophy. The main objectives of this paper are to explore: (1) pitfalls of the Varna and caste systems, (2) the status and discrimination of women, (3) the non-Vedic and flung irreligious activities in Hinduism, and (4) Vedic examples of equality in Hinduism.

Methodology: In order to identify various constructs related to the above objectives, an extensive literature review was undertaken based on the main scriptures of Hinduism. Various information from scriptures have been systematically collated and presented in this paper.

Findings and conclusions: The converging evidence from various scriptures suggests that Hinduism was not invented and does not support divisive varna and caste systems, which are inhuman by all standards and against basic human principles. It is unfortunate that caste-related discrimination exists in some traditional societies in many countries including India. It is praiseworthy that in our Vedic literature women are highly regarded in all walks of life which is unparallel to any systems around the globe. Unfortunately, it was found that some sectarian people have been deliberately attempting to introduce flung irreligious practices which have created misconceptions amongst Hindus. These research findings help to enhance understanding of the purity of Vedic knowledge and build awareness to alleviate misconceptions in the everlasting spiritual knowledge and practices of Hinduism.

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