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It is a ritual that is practiced today and is mentioned in Medieval Hinduism too. It is important to note that the practice of animal sacrifice is not a required ritual in some sects of Hinduism. The majority of practicing Hindus today choose not to participate in or acknowledge the practice.
The religion of Hinduism seems to have links with the ancient Indus religion. Some Hindu gods are like the gods shown on Indus Valley seals. Indus Valley people believed water was holy, and Hindus believe they are 'purified' in a religious way when they bathe in the sacred River Ganges. The cow and bull are sacred animals in India. Farmers still 'terrace' hills slopes to grow crops, the way Indus Valley farmers did.