Hindus believe in transmigration or reincarnation, as a journey
on the way to God, The Supreme Reality which Hindus call
Brahman. There are 19,358 Hindus (2% of religious population)
living in Birmingham. (Census 2001) Makar Sankranti: Makar
Sankranti is celebrated in January and a number of prayers are
recited during the day. A special sweet made of sesame seeds
symbolising life is distributed to friends and relatives and
children celebrate by flying kites. Vasant Panchami: The
festival of Vasanta Panchami is celebrated by Hindus in
January/February, mainly in honour of Sarasvati, the Goddess of
learning, wisdom and fine arts. Shiv Ratri: The festival of Shiv
Ratri is celebrated by Hindus in February/March. On this
occasion people offer bilwa leaves to an iconic representation
of Shiva (Shiva-Linga) and spend the whole night in prayer
(Japa) meditation of Shiva (Dhayana). Holi: Holi announces the
arrival of spring and the passing of winter. It is a festival
that breathes an atmosphere of social merriment. Pe