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Introduction:

Indian Secularism is characterized by the recognition of all religions as equal, i.e “Sarva Dharma Sambhava”. It does not envisage a strict separation of religion and state as seen in the Western form of secularism. Secularism is an essential feature of the Indian Constitution. The term ‘Secular’ was interpreted in the S.R. Bommai case to mean religious tolerance and equal treatment of all religious groups.

Indian society, despite being multi-religious, ethnic, linguistic, culture, is secular because of the adoption of values such as tolerance, assimilation & pluralism by the Indian society.

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Tolerance as a key element of Indian Secularism:

Tolerance allows divergent ideas, customs, beliefs, and lifestyles to flourish in society. In the context of Indian secularism, tolerance is essential for creating a society that is inclusive and respectful of diversity.

• Principle of ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhav’: India since its ancient times laid the foundation for tolerance towards other religions and culture.
• ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ is a phrase in Maha Upanishad, a Hindu religious text which essentially means “the world is family”.
• India has been the living example of tolerance: Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism are religions that arose in India. India is home to most of the major religions globally. India has always stood on the principle of ‘Dharma nirapekshata’.
  • Majority of the Kings and emperors of ancient India always adhered to the principle of tolerance. This ensured that the social and cultural diversity was not disturbed and the society remained secular.
• Constitutional provisions: The state doesn’t have a recognized religion. Fundamental rights guaranteed by the state’s constitution (Articles 25 to 28), guaranteeing that everyone has the right to practice any religion, represent the state’s tolerance of all religions.

Pluralism as a key element of Indian Secularism:

While tolerance is essential, it still showcases the lack of acceptance. With pluralism, the differences start to be seen as complementary. By embracing pluralism, India is able to celebrate and appreciate its diversity, while also promoting a sense of unity and shared values.

• Cultural features vary significantly among different groups but they are accepted by each other.
  • For instance, festivals like Diwali, Christmas and Eid are celebrated with equal fervor throughout India.
• Religions like Christianity and Islam were introduced by invaders, yet they coexisted with the rest of the society without losing their distinctive identities.
• When multiple religious communities coexist, over time they begin to incorporate elements of one another’s art, architecture, culture, and religion.
  • For instance, Mughal art is the result of the fusion of Persian Islamic architecture and native Indian design. The Mughal art in turn strongly influenced the Rajput paintings of Jaipur and Amber.

Assimilation as a key element of Indian Secularism:

Assimilation is the process whereby individuals or groups of differing ethnic heritage are absorbed into the dominant culture of a society. Assimilation involves the incorporation of diverse groups and cultures into a larger society.

• Unity in diversity: In India, assimilation is seen through the view that diversity is a strength, and that by embracing different cultures and traditions, the country can become more united and cohesive.
• ‘Indian culture’: Differences in cultures blend together so seamlessly that despite variations, there are several commonalities that lead to a general idea of an ‘Indian culture’.
  • For instance, an Indian Muslim or Christian is closer to Indian Hindu than to Christians of Europe or Muslims of West Asia.
  • The Sufi saints are revered by all Indians irrespective of their faith.

Conclusion:

The multiplicity in culture, faith and language is what makes India special. Pluralism and tolerance are core philosophies of Indian society. Plurality of our society has come about through assimilation of ideas over centuries. All of these values are complementary to each other and are essential for India to be able to follow its unique model of secularism.

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