Shraddha

Shraddha, also transliterated Śraddhā, is a Sanskrit term traditionally rendered as faith, trust, devotion, or reverence. The word comes from a root meaning to believe or place confidence; in Hindu and related Indian traditions it denotes an inner conviction that guides conduct and the reception of spiritual instruction.

In Hinduism, shraddha is a core virtue in practice and learning. It governs how a student regards a guru and how a devotee relates to the divine. Shraddha is also the name of ancestral rites performed to honor deceased relatives, known as Śrāddha ceremonies, which vary by community and region and are often observed on specific lunar days or tithis.

In Indian philosophy, shraddha is discussed as the initial trust required to accept scriptural testimony and to begin inquiry. Across schools such as Vedanta, shraddha is viewed as preparatory or instrumental in facilitating progress toward knowledge (jnana), rather than as a substitute for direct realization. Related concepts of faith and devotion appear in other traditions as well, though the terminology and practices differ.

As a given name, Shraddha is common in India and among diaspora communities. A notable bearer is Shraddha Kapoor, an Indian actress known for roles in contemporary Hindi cinema. The term remains widely used in religious, cultural, and literary contexts to express a foundational attitude toward life, learning, and reverence for predecessors.