The role of Samskaras in the construction of individual and social identity in Hinduism

This thesis examines the role of Hindu saṁskāras in shaping individuals' presence in the public sphere, and their function in the construction of social identity and a sense of belonging, within the framework of ritual theory and rites of passage. In Hinduism, saṁskāras are sacred rites that mark significant transitions in an individual's life cycle and serve to transform the individual on both personal and social levels. These rituals play a vital role in the formation of identity and in strengthening the sense of cultural and social belonging. The study particularly focuses on the rites accompanying transitional stages such as birth, initiation, marriage, and death, exploring how these rituals connect individuals to social structures. Saṁskāras remind individuals of their place and roles within society and guide them through a strong cultural framework shaped by shared norms, values, and beliefs. Through these processes, the individual becomes an active participant not only in a religious community but also in a broader social order. This thesis aims to understand how saṁskāras contribute to the transformation of both personal identity and social belonging, while also addressing how these rituals operate within the context of cross cultural similarities and differences. In this respect, saṁskāras are presented as a key phenomenon that sustains social structure, reinforces social ties, and positions individuals within a cultural whole. Thus, the study offers an in-depth analysis of the Hindu individual's presence in the public sphere, within both religious and cultural dimensions, and seeks to reveal the determining role of saṁskāras in the development of social belonging.