Religion, Sanātana Dharma, and Secularism: A Conceptual Dissonance
Religion, Sanātana Dharma, and Secularism: A Conceptual Dissonance
Dr. P. Raghavendra
ABSTRACT
This paper examines the conceptual relationship between the category of “religion,” the framework of “secularism,” and
the scriptural understanding of “Sanātana Dharma. It argues that the modern idea of religion, is shaped mainly by the
historical development of the Abrahamic traditions, which is not universal but a context-specific concept defined by
doctrinal belief, institutional structure, and fixed exclusive identity. When this framework is applied to Sanātana Dharma,
it results in a conceptual mismatch, since dharma represents a fundamentally different principle that integrates cosmic
order, universal welfare, ethical life, social responsibility, and spiritual pursuit. Drawing on scriptural sources,
philosophical analysis, and Indian Supreme Court judgments, the paper highlights what is recognised as “Hinduism or
Sanātana Dharma” does conform to the Abrahamic notions of religion. but is better interpreted as an Indian civilizational
value, traditions, right conduct, duties and responsibilities, Philosophical vision or a way of Indian life. It further
examines the origin of the term “secularism” and its original meaning. The paper portrays the implications of the insertion
of the term “secular” into the Preamble, where it is used to signify religious freedom and neutrality, qualities that are
more comprehensively inherent in Sanātana Dharma. It also highlights the implications of various Articles of the Indian
Constitution for Dharmic unity. Although ordinary thinkers often treat the concepts of religion and Sanātana Dharma as
synonymous, they are not the same. Therefore, this paper examines this tension as a form of “conceptual dissonance.”
Keywords: Sanātana Dharma; Religion; Secularism; Conceptual Dissonance; Constitution of India.