Hinduism developed slowly over time without a single founder. It is based on teachings found in the Vedas and Upanishads and concepts like karma, reincarnation, and moksha. Hindus believe that souls are reborn into different forms based on their karma from past lives, with the goal of achieving moksha and escaping this cycle. Other key beliefs and practices include worshipping gods like Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, following a vegetarian diet, and the historical caste system which restricted social roles based on birth.