Seems like there is confusion and questioning over Hindus following their rituals differently.
Religion is something that evolves and changes over time. Different people understand and interpret religious texts and rituals differently. That is why within every religion there is a diversity of beliefs. Even within Christianity and Islam there are sects and sub sects that have differing interpretations of the holy books. Similarly even in Hinduism the rituals can be celebrated differently depending on the region/community etc.
In addition one must understand that most eastern religions are very different from Abrahamic religions. They tend to be more philosophy' based rather than scripture' based. So there is no real central ultimate scripture like the Torah, Bible or Quran. While the Bhagvad Gita is likened to a Hindu Bible of sorts, it isn't mandated. In fact a belief in God also isn't necessary in Hinduism. Hindu philosophy allows room for both astiks (theists) and nastiks (non-theists) because the core tenet isn't faith' but action' (karma). So because there is no set commandments do this, do that, believe this, not that - there is room for even more interpretations and practices. All religious rites, rituals, practices within Hinduism are not something compulsory' but advised' or recommended'.
Even within the religions that have scriptures prescribing rituals, the interpretation is varied. Many modern Jews no longer practice kosher. Christians vary in their belief on when is the right age for Baptism. Protestant denominations are a stark breakaway from Catholic beliefs. Within Islam there is debate on when, how and why a person may be exempt from fasting during Ramadan. Some people keep fasts from sunrise to sunset local time. Some people fast based on the times set by clerics elsewhere.
Variation doesn't mean people don't know what they are doing or don't know their religion. It is just the nature of faith. Religion is preached and practiced by humans. And since all humans think and act differently, variation and evolving beliefs is a fact of every religion.
Tum Se Tum Tak
