Communalism In The Guise Of Religious Nationalism In Secular India

Abstract

In examining the relationship between religion and communalism in India along with tracing how Indian nationalism has changed over time from being pluralistic and inclusive to becoming increasingly aggressive during the 1990s, this article offers insights and India underlines its commitment to inclusivity and tolerance while showcasing its rich cultural heritage and history of secularism. Exploring how communalism emerged due to lack of competition in medieval times, the article highlights its contrast with religion and examining how communalism manifested as religious nationalism during British rule leading to a loss of Hindu-Muslim harmony culminating with India's partition in 1947.The article emphasises the significance of the Babri mosque demolition incident in 1992 as an illustration of communalism and religious nationalism, and it also mentions how it has impacted inter-religious tensions that exist even now. This article underlines that it is essential to comprehend the complicated link between religion and communalism. Additionally, it also stresses on promoting social harmony along with inclusivity in societies that are culturally diverse.