several modern religions are linked to india, namely modern hinduism, jainism, buddhism and sikhism. all of these religions have different "schools" (ways of thinking) and traditions that are related. as a group they are called the eastern religions. the indian religions are similar to one another in many ways: the basic beliefs, the way worship is done and several religious practices are very similar. these similarities mainly come from the fact that these religions have a common history and common origins. they also influenced each other.