THE UNITED THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE,

BENGALURU

SMARNIKA B. WANKHEDE

RCS 153

DATE: 08 OCT 2024

TOPIC: PLURALITIES & COMPLEXITIES OF

INDIAN SOCIETY CONTRIBUTE TO THE
DEVELOPMENT OF GLORIOUS CIVILIZATION

SUBMITTED TO REV. DR. D. S. BEN DAS

How do the pluralities and complexities of Indian Society contribute to the development of a
glorious civilization??

To understand this question first will have to see what Indian Society is and what civilization is

Indian Society

Indian society is a vibrant and diverse community of over 1.3 billion people, characterized by a
unique blend of traditional and modern values. This diversity is reflected in the countries many
languages, religions, castes, and tribes, which coexist and interact in complex ways. Despite this
diversity, Indian society is broadly collectivist, prioritizing family and community ties over
individualism.

At its core, Indian society is organized around the joint family system, where extended family
members live together and share responsibilities. The traditional caste system also continues to
influence social dynamics, with different castes holding varying levels of social status. India's
rapid urbanization has created a stark contrast between urban and rural life, with cities offering
greater opportunities for education, employment, and cultural exchange.

Indian values emphasize respect for elders, tradition, and authority. Spirituality plays a
significant role, with Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism being
major religions. Social hierarchy is deeply ingrained, with social status and respect often tied to
caste, education, and economic position.

However, Indian society faces significant challenges, including social inequality, poverty, and
environmental degradation. Caste-based discrimination, gender disparities, and economic
disparities persist, limiting access to education, healthcare, and opportunities. Environmental
concerns, such as pollution and conservation, also require urgent attention.

Despite these challenges, India is modernizing rapidly. Globalization has increased connectivity
and cultural exchange, while urbanization has driven economic growth and development.
Education has become more accessible, leading to increased literacy and digital skills. As India
continues to evolve, its rich cultural heritage and traditions will likely shape its future, balancing
progress with preservation.
Hierarchy

India is a hierarchical society. Whether in north India or south India, Hindu or Muslim, urban or
village, virtually all things, people, and social groups are ranked according to various essential
qualities. Although India is a political democracy, notions of complete equality are seldom
evident in daily life.

Societal hierarchy is evident in caste groups, amongst individuals, and in family and kinship
groups. Castes are primarily associated with Hinduism, but caste-like groups also exist among
Muslims, Indian, Christians, and other religious communities. Within most villages or towns,
everyone knows the relative rankings of each locally represented caste, and behavior is
constantly shaped by this knowledge.

Individuals are also ranked according to their wealth and power. For example, some powerful
people, or “big men,” sit confidently on chairs, while “little men” come before them to make
requests, either standing or squatting not presuming to sit beside a man of high status as an equal.

Hierarchy plays an important role within families and kinship groupings also, where men outrank
women of similar age, and senior relatives outrank junior relatives. Formal respect is accorded
family members—for example, in northern India, a daughter-in-law shows deference to her
husband, to all senior in-laws, and to all daughters of the household. Siblings, too, recognize age
differences, with younger siblings addressing older siblings by respectful terms rather than by
name.

Purity and Pollution

Many status differences in Indian society are expressed in terms of ritual purity and pollution,
complex notions that vary greatly among different castes, religious groups, and regions.
Generally, high status is associated with purity and low status with pollution. Some kinds of
purity are inherent; for example, a member of a high-ranking Brahmin, or priestly, caste is born
with more inherent purity than someone born into a low-ranking sweeper, or scavenger, caste.
Other kinds of purity are more transitory for example; a Brahmin who has just taken a bath is
more ritually pure than a Brahmin who has not bathed for a day.

Purity is associated with ritual cleanliness daily bathing in flowing water, dressing in freshly
laundered clothes, eating only the foods appropriate for one’s caste, and avoiding physical
contact with people of significantly lower rank or with impure substances, such as the bodily
wastes of another adult. Involvement with the products of death or violence is usually ritually
polluting.

Social Interdependence

One of the great themes pervading Indian life is social interdependence. People are born into
groups—families, clans, sub-castes, castes, and religious communities—and feel a deep sense of
inseparability from these groups. People are deeply involved with others, and for many, the
greatest fear is the possibility of being left alone, without social support. Psychologically, family
members typically experience intense emotional interdependence. Economic activities, too, are
deeply imbedded in a social nexus. Through a multitude of kinship ties, each person is linked
with kin in villages and towns near and far. Almost everywhere a person goes; he can find a
relative from whom he can expect moral and practical support.

In every activity, social ties can help a person and the absence of them can bring failure. Seldom
do people carry out even the simplest tasks on their own. When a small child eats, his mother
puts the food into his mouth with her own hand. When a girl brings water home from the well in
pots on her head, someone helps her unload the pots. A student hopes that an influential relative
or friend can facilitate his college admission. A young person anticipates that parents will
arrange his or her marriage. Finally, a person facing death expects that relatives will conduct the
proper funeral rites ensuring his own smooth passage to the next stage of existence and
reaffirming social ties among mourners.

This sense of interdependence extends into the theological realm. From birth onward, a child
learns that his “fate” has been “written” by divine forces and that his life is shaped by powerful
deities with whom an ongoing relationship must be maintained.

Family and Kinship

The essential themes of Indian cultural life are learned within the bosom of a family. The joint
family is highly valued, ideally consisting of several generations residing, working, eating, and
worshiping together. Such families include men related through the male line, along with their
wives, children, and unmarried daughters. A wife usually lives with her husband’s relatives,
although she retains important bonds with her natal family. Even in rapidly modernizing India,
the traditional joint household remains for most Indians the primary social force, in both ideal
and practice.

Large families tend to be flexible and well suited to modern Indian life, especially for the more
than two-thirds of Indians who are involved in agriculture. As in most primarily agricultural
societies, cooperating kin help provide mutual economic security. The joint family is also
common in cities, where kinship ties are often crucial to obtaining employment or financial
assistance. Many prominent families, such as the Tatas, Birlas, and Sarabhais, retain joint family
arrangements as they cooperate in controlling major financial empires.
The ancient ideal of the joint family retains its power, but today actual living arrangements vary
widely. Many Indians live in nuclear families—-a couple with their unmarried children—-but
belong to strong networks of beneficial kinship ties. Often, clusters of relatives live as neighbors,
responding readily to their kinship obligations.

As they expand, joint families typically divide into smaller units, which gradually grow into new
joint families, continuing a perpetual cycle. Today, some family members may move about to
take advantage of job opportunities, typically sending money home to the larger family.

Caste and Class

Varna, Caste, and Other Divisions

Social inequality exists throughout the world, but perhaps nowhere has inequality been as
elaborately constructed as in the Indian institution of caste. Caste has existed for many centuries,
but in the modern period it has been severely criticized and is undergoing significant change.
Castes are ranked, named, endogamous (in-marrying) groups, membership in which is achieved
by birth. There are thousands of castes and sub-castes in India, involving hundreds of millions of
people. These large kinship-based groups are fundamental to South Asian social structure. Caste
membership provides a sense of belonging to a recognized group from whom support can be
expected in a variety of situations.

The word caste derives from the Portuguese casta, meaning species, race, or kind. Among Indian
terms sometimes translated as caste are varna, jati, jat, biradri, and samaj. Varna, or color,
actually refers to four large categories that include numerous castes. The other terms refer to
castes and subdivisions of castes often called sub-castes.

Many castes are associated with traditional occupations, such as priests, potters, barbers,
carpenters, leatherworkers, butchers, and launderers. Members of higher-ranking castes tend to
be more prosperous than members of lower-ranking castes, who often endure poverty and social
disadvantage. The so-called “Untouchables” were traditionally relegated to polluting tasks. Since
1935, “Untouchables” have been known as “Scheduled Castes,” and Mahatma Gandhi called
them Harijans, or “Children of God.” Today, the politically correct term for these groups, who
make up some 16% of the population, is Dalit, or “Oppressed.” Other groups, usually called
tribes (often referred to as “Scheduled Tribes”) are also integrated into the caste system to
varying degrees.
In past decades, Dalits in certain areas had to display extreme deference to high-status people
and were barred from most temples and wells. Such degrading discrimination was outlawed
under legislation passed during British rule and was repudiated by pre-independence reform
movements led by Mahatma Gandhi and Bhimrao Ramji (B.R.) Ambedkar, a Dalit leader. After
independence in 1947, Dr. Ambedkar almost single-handedly wrote India’s constitution,
including provisions barring caste-based discrimination. However, Dalits as a group still suffer
significant disadvantages, especially in rural areas.

Within castes, explicit standards are maintained. Rules of marriage, diet, dress, occupation, and
other behaviors are enforced, often by a caste council (panchayat). Infringements can be
punished by fines and temporary or permanent out casting. Individuals and caste groups can
hope to rise slowly on the hierarchy through economic success and adoption of high-caste
behaviors. However, it is virtually impossible for an individual to raise his own status by falsely
claiming to belong to a higher caste; a deception of this kind is easily discovered.

In rural areas, many low-caste people still suffer from landlessness, unemployment, and
discriminatory practices. In the growing cities, however, caste affiliations are often unknown to
casual associates, and traditional restrictions on inter-caste interactions are fading fast. In some
urbane circles, inter-caste marriages linking mates of similar class status have become
acceptable. Correlations between caste and occupations are declining rapidly.

In recent years, key changes have occurred in caste observances. It is now legally and socially
unacceptable to openly advocate any caste’s superiority or inferiority, and lower caste groups are
flexing their political muscle. Even as traditional hierarchies weaken, caste identities are being
reinforced, especially among disadvantaged groups with rights to special educational benefits
and substantial quotas reserved for them of electoral offices and government jobs. In protest
against Hinduism’s rigid rankings, thousands of Dalits have embraced Buddhism, following the
example of the revered B.R. Ambedkar.

Pluralities and Complexities of Indian Society

India is a pluralistic society with many complexities, including economic, religious, and social
differences:
 Economic diversity
India has significant economic disparities between rural and urban areas. Rural communities
often face poverty, limited education, and poor healthcare, while urban areas have a growing
middle class and industries.

 Religious pluralism
Many Indians have a pluralistic attitude toward religion, believing that many religions can be
true. However, religious majoritarianism can lead to the assertion of the majority religion in
the public sphere.

 Social complexities
India has many ethnic, linguistic, religious, and caste divisions. Inter-community conflicts can
arise from these differences, threatening national unity.

 Cultural exchange
India's pluralistic nature offers opportunities for cultural exchange and knowledge sharing. The
coexistence of diverse traditions, languages, and religions can promote cross-cultural
understanding.

 Regional differences

India has distinct linguistic traditions and cropping patterns across different regions. For
example, Andhra is home to Telugu speakers, while Tamil Nadu is home to Tamil speakers.

Glorious Civilization

India's history is filled with glorious civilizations that left lasting impacts. One of the earliest was
the Indus Valley Civilization (3300-1300 BCE), known for its advanced cities, water
management, and trade networks. This civilization was remarkably organized and efficient.

Next came the Vedic Civilization (1500-500 BCE), which saw the birth of Hinduism and the
creation of the Vedas, ancient Hindu scriptures. This period laid the foundation for India's rich
philosophical and spiritual heritage.

The Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE) unified India for the first time, with Emperor Ashoka's
reign being a golden era for Buddhism, art, and architecture. Ashoka's teachings of compassion
and non-violence spread throughout the world. This is also known as one of the greatest
civilization of India

The Gupta Empire (320-550 CE) is often called India's "Golden Age." This period saw
groundbreaking discoveries in science, mathematics, astronomy, literature, and art. Indians made
significant contributions to the world, including the concept of zero.

The Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1646 CE) revived Hindu culture, trade, and architecture in
southern India. This empire built stunning temples and palaces, showcasing India's artistic
prowess.

Lastly, the Mughal Empire (1526-1756 CE) brought Islamic culture, art, and architecture to
India. The Taj Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, remains one of the world's most
iconic monuments.

Some notable achievements from these civilizations include:

- Developing the decimal system and concept of zero

- Advancing Ayurveda and traditional medicine

- Creating yoga and spiritual practices

- Writing Sanskrit literature and poetry

- Building magnificent temples, mosques, and palaces

- Establishing trade networks across the world

Key figures that shaped India's history include Ashoka, Aryabhata, Kalidasa, Akbar, Adi
Shankaracharya, and Mahatma Gandhi.

Contribution of Indian Society in development of Glorious Civilization

India's history is divided into several periods, each with its own unique achievements. The
ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which existed around 4000 years ago, was known for its
advanced cities and water management systems. The Vedic period that followed saw the birth of
Hinduism and the creation of sacred texts called the Vedas.

The Mauryan Empire, which ruled India from 322 to 185 BCE, was a golden era for Buddhism,
art, and architecture. Emperor Ashoka's teachings of compassion and non-violence spread
throughout the world. The Gupta Empire, which came next, is often called India's "Golden Age"
due to its groundbreaking discoveries in science, mathematics, and literature.

During the medieval period, Islamic rulers like the Mughals brought new architectural styles,
artistic traditions, and administrative reforms. The Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire built
iconic monuments like the Qutub Minar and Red Fort. This period also saw the emergence of
Sufi mysticism and poetry.

In southern India, the Tamil kingdoms of Chera, Chola, and Pandya developed their own distinct
culture, architecture, and literature. They built magnificent temples, established trade with Rome
and Southeast Asia, and created classical Tamil literature.

The British colonial period, which lasted from 1757 to 1947, saw the rise of the Indian National
Movement. Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru fought for independence, while
social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar worked to
modernize Indian society.

Throughout its history, India has made significant contributions to philosophy, yoga, Ayurveda,
music, dance, textiles, and crafts. Its cultural heritage is a rich tapestry of diverse traditions and
influences.
Some notable Indians who shaped the country's history include Ashoka, Akbar, Mahatma
Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Swami Vivekananda. Their contributions continue to inspire
Indians and the world.

Indian civilization has made significant contributions to the development of human civilization
as a whole. Here are some key areas where Indian civilization has had a profound impact:

Science and Technology

1. Zero and Decimal System: India invented the concept of zero and the decimal system,
revolutionizing mathematics and commerce.
2. Ayurveda: Ancient Indian medicine system still practiced globally.
3. Yoga: Indian physical and mental well-being practices now popular worldwide.
4. Astronomy: Ancient Indians made significant astronomical discoveries, including predicting
eclipses.

Philosophy and Spirituality

1. Vedanta: Influenced Western philosophical thought, especially through German philosophers

like Kant and Schopenhauer.
2. Buddhism: Spread to East Asia, influencing Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cultures.
3. Jainism: Contributed to non-violence and ahimsa (non-harming) principles.
Arts and Architecture

1. Taj Mahal: Iconic monument and symbol of love.

2. Indian Classical Music: Influenced Western classical music.
3. Dance: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and other classical dance forms.
4. Textiles: Indian crafts and fabrics inspired global fashion.

Language and Literature

1. Sanskrit: Contributed to development of many languages, including English.

2. Ancient Indian Literature: Influenced world literature, including works like the Mahabharata
and Ramayana.

Economics and Trade

1. Spice Route: India's spice trade connected Europe, Asia, and Africa.
2. Indian Ocean Trade: Facilitated exchange between East Africa, Middle East, and Southeast
Asia.

Social and Cultural

1. Democracy: Ancient India had republican states like Vaishali.

2. Women's Rights: Women held high social status in ancient India.
3. Caste System: Complex social hierarchy influenced social structures globally.

Modern Contributions

1. Information Technology: India's IT industry drives global innovation.

2. Space Exploration: India's space program achieves notable milestones.
3. Medical Research: Indian scientists contribute to global health advancements.

These contributions demonstrate India's significant impact on human civilization, shaping

various aspects of our global heritage.
Bibliography:

Websites:

 https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/indian-society-in-modern-era/indian-
society-and-ways-of-living-36197/
 https://www.worldhistory.org/india/#:~:text=Archaeological%20excavations%20have%2
0discovered%20artifacts,as%20well%20as%20many%20more.
 https://www.eoibudapest.gov.in/page/history/

Books:
1. Somayaji Sakarama, Somayaji Ganesha, Coelho Joanna “Discerning the Plural Social
Sphere: Insights from Contemporary Indian Society” (Routledge, 2024)
2. Ahmad Imtiaz, Ghosh Partha, Reifeld Helmut “Pluralism and Equality: Values in Indian
Society and Politics” (SAGE, 18 December, 2000)
3. Tata Firoz “The Glorious History of Ancient India: Pre Historic India until the Cholas of
South India” (Notion Press, 08 March 2021)
4. Dutt Romesh “The Civilization of India” (Romesh Dutt)
5. Acharya Sharma Shriram, “Contribution of India to Global Cultural Civilization”
(Ashutosh Sarswat, 19 March 2015)