I have observed that many Hindus today put a strong focus on liturgy (rituals, cracking coconuts, offering flowers, lighting diyas etc) and narratives (Hindu mythological stories,Puranas, Ramayana,Mahabharat etc). Whilst these aspects of Hinduism may be important, can they be said to be essence of Hinduism?

There is a rich spiritual philosophy within the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Gita. However I have seen that many Hindus today have little interest or knowledge on these topics.

I understand that Hinduism is very diverse and pluralistic and every person will choose a path suitable for them. But having said this what is the true goal of Hinduism?

If you say it is moksha, or self realization then why does there appear to be so little focus on this? Why is there so much attention to the more superficial aspects of Hinduism? What are today's Hindus trying to achieve by being Hindu?

Is Hinduism really 'just a way of life' with no real purpose or meaning?