The Doctrine

Upanishads

The Upanishads are the documents created by the Brahmans which describe aspects of the Vedas in Hinduism in heavier detail. The word 'upanishad' translates into sitting near, which references the closeness with which a disciple learns from his guru. The Upanishads give important philosophical clarification on many of the concepts in Hinduism, such as reincarnation, karma and the connection of Brahman and Atman. Theses texts help begin a path to understanding the greater concepts of the Vedas texts. And for most people to understand the Upanishads themselves, the guidance of interpretations by various philosophers are necessary as well. These commentaries are called 'smitri' texts. 

Ramayana

The story of Ramayana is written in the Sanskrit language, common to India, by the poet and holy man Valkimi. The epic is the Eastern Hindu equivalent to the stories of the Bible. The scripture contains morals as do many of the stories and legends told in Hindu culture, though there is a more mythical image associated with the Hindu legends than those of the Bible. The legend tells the tale of Rama the prince, who remains, in the eyes of Hindus, more of a historical figure than a character in a heroic saga. In short, the tale is told about Rama being cheated of the throne and then forced out of his city, with his wife and brother. After living in the forest for a long while, Rama's beautiful wife, Sita, is kidnapped by Ravana the evil demon king. After finding a race of people Rama becomes allies with, he takes an army to save Sita and clashes with Ravana's army at the gates to the palace. After killing many of Ravana's sons and then finally Ravana himself, Sita is set free and they all return to the city. This legend in particular is relevant in modern day because it sparked the holiday Diwali, which is in celebration of the safe return of Rama, who was said to have been an incarnation of the god Vishnu.

The full animated movie version of Ramayana.