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Synopsis Rites, rituals and customs play a major role in the life of every person, irrespective of religious affiliations.  This is more prominent in the case of Hindus.  Right from the time of conception and birth, up to a person's passing away and even after it, rites and rituals follow a Hindu at all times, much like a shadow.  How? Why? What? This book answers it all.  Why do Hindus offer prayers to Ganesh before a special occasion?  What is the significance of the many incarnations of Gods? Why do Hindus consider Tulsi the most sacred plant?  Why do married women wear a mangalsutra around the neck? Why is care of parents the best service?  Traditionally, family ties among the Hindus have remained strong, no matter where they live - America, England, Russia or Japan.  Rites and rituals have passed down the generations.  Unmindful of the rationale behind a particular occasion, the youth of today continue to observe them scrupulously, quite often in a truncated form.  21st century youth want facts to decide what they can accept or reject.  Effort has been made to research the authoritative texts and put together into a small compendium the origins of 145 How's, Why's and What’s of rites, rituals, customs and traditions that enliven the Hindus' daily existence.