Religion was a major factor leading to the partition of India. The Hindus and the Muslims could not co-exist amicably because the Hindus have a caste system. Anybody not belonging to their caste is an untouchable, an outsider or a barbarian. The extreme contrast between Hinduism and Islam made it very difficult for the Hindus to accept Muslims. Music is forbidden in Islam while festivals of the Hindus are always accompanied by music. The Muslims would not stand having the Hindus and their music pass by the mosques while the Muslims were at prayer. Hindus regard the cow as sacred while the Muslims are allowed to butcher cows and eat beef.