Sufism refers to the mystical dimension of Islam, often called Tasawwuf. The central idea of Sufism is that true knowledge of God cannot be attained merely through external rituals or legalistic religious practices. Instead, it requires inner purification, love for the Divine, and spiritual experience. Thus, Sufis emphasised: Unlike orthodox scholars who relied on theology…
Meaning and Essence of the Bhakti Movement The Bhakti Movement was a powerful religious and spiritual movement in India that emphasised devotion (bhakti) to a personal deity rather than dependence on complex rituals, priestly authority, or rigid religious formalism. At its core, the movement taught that true spiritual liberation could be achieved through love, devotion,…
Adi Shankaracharya (Shankara) Historical Background Adi Shankaracharya lived in the 8th century CE and is regarded as one of the greatest philosophers of India. He was born in Kaladi in present-day Kerala. He belonged to the tradition of Advaita Vedanta, which is one of the most influential philosophical systems in Hindu thought. At a time…
Meaning of Indian Philosophy (Darsana) Indian philosophy is commonly referred to as “Darsana.”The Sanskrit word Darsana literally means “to see” or “to realise.” Thus, philosophy in India does not simply mean speculation about reality; it means direct insight into the nature of existence. Indian philosophical traditions began to evolve around the 6th century BCE, during…
These religions, though numerically small in India, form an important part of the country’s pluralistic religious landscape. Their presence reflects India’s historical tradition of religious tolerance and cultural assimilation. Communities such as the Parsis, Jews, and Baháʼís contributed significantly to India’s social, economic, and cultural life despite their small population size Zoroastrianism Overview Zoroastrianism is…
Overview of Jainism Aspect Details Origin Jainism traces its spiritual lineage through 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). Historical Founder Mahavira (599–527 BCE), the 24th Tirthankara, is considered the historical founder. Traditional Founder Rishabhadeva (Adinatha) – regarded as the first Tirthankara in Jain tradition. Social Background All Tirthankaras belonged to the Kshatriya Varna. Historically Known Tirthankaras Only…
Origin and Historical Background Buddhism originated in the 6th century BCE as a reformist spiritual movement in ancient India. It emerged during a period of intense intellectual and social transformation when many thinkers were questioning ritualistic practices and the authority of the Vedas. The religion was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, later known as the Buddha…
Sikhism emerged in the late 15th century in the Punjab region as a spiritual movement that emphasised devotion to one God, social equality, and community service. It developed during a period when Indian society was deeply influenced by religious divisions, caste hierarchies, and ritualism. The founder Guru Nanak Dev (1469–1539 CE) advocated a path based…
Christianity is one of the world’s major monotheistic religions that originated in the 1st century CE in the Roman province of Judea (modern-day Israel/Palestine). It is based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, who is believed by Christians to be the Son of God and the Saviour of humanity. His teachings emphasised love,…
Islam is one of the world’s major monotheistic religions that originated in 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula. It was founded by Prophet Muhammad (570–632 CE) in the city of Mecca. The religion is based on the belief that Allah (God) revealed divine guidance to humanity through Prophet Muhammad, which was compiled in the…
