Hinduism has one of the most extensive systems of lifecycle rituals, called samskaras (being made fit for use), which mark key moments in people's lives from before birth to death. There are over 40 samskaras, 16 of which are described in Hindu religious literature and divided into four general groupings. For this unit, we will focus on only 5 rituals. They can be categorised by birth, initiation, marriage, and death.