Hinduism is the largest religion in the Indian subcontinent and the third largest in the world. It is often referred to as the "oldest religion" globally, with many followers considering it as the "eternal law" (Sanatana Dharma). Within this faith, there are four major traditions or sects: Vaishnavism, Shaivism, Shaktism, and Smartism, alongside numerous smaller traditions such as Ganapatya and Saurism.
Religion encompasses a diverse system of beliefs, with varied notions of deities, philosophies, and practices followed by devotees. Some interpret this faith as monotheistic, where all deities are considered manifestations of the ultimate reality, as popularized by Advaita Vedanta. It is also broadly categorized as polytheistic and henotheistic, though some view it as a form of panentheism.