• ‘Secularism’ is a value-loaded concept, its values derive from, and must be contextualised in our understanding of the underlying social process we call ‘secularisation’. ‘Secularisation is a social process and ‘secularism’ is a sociopolitical ideal or ideology. In actuality ‘secularism’ can become a reality in our social institutions only in so far as these are affected by ‘secularisation’. Therefore, secularism is a product of, and, in turn, strengthen the process of secularisation.
• The term ‘secularisation’ is defined by Bryan Wilson as the process in which different social institutions ‘become recognised as distinctive concerns operating with considerable autonomy. It is also a process of “decline in religious activities, beliefs, ways of thinking and institutions.” This decline in religious consciousness is the result of the universal acceptance of pragmatic or scientific approach to secular issues. In a secularised society people turn to science for explanation of natural phenomena and for remedial measures for their mundane problems. They no more take recourse to the “supernatural” for either cognitive understanding of the world, or even for emotional support.

In the Indian context, the understanding of secularization is quite complex due to the country’s diverse religious composition, historical background, and the constitutional framework.

1. Constitutional-legal Perspective: India’s constitution provides for a secular state, meaning that it neither promotes any particular religion nor discriminates against any. The state maintains equidistance from all religions and ensures that all citizens have the freedom to practice, propagate, and profess their faith. Secularization, in this context, is understood as a constitutional principle that protects religious diversity and promotes religious freedom.
2. Gandhian Perspective: Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle, had a unique understanding of secularism. He advocated for Sarva Dharma Sambhava, which means “equal respect for all religions”. Secularization, in this understanding, does not mean irreligiousness or atheism, but rather, it entails promoting mutual respect and peaceful coexistence among different faiths.
3. Nehruvian Perspective: Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, had a different vision of secularism, one more in line with Western conceptions. He advocated for a scientific temper and rationality, aiming to reduce the influence of religion in public life and foster a modern, progressive society. In this perspective, secularization means the retreat of religious institutions from societal and political spheres.
4. Dalit Perspective: For marginalized communities like Dalits (previously known as “untouchables”), secularization might be seen as a way to escape caste-based discrimination that’s often justified through religious doctrines. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a Dalit leader and the principal architect of the Indian constitution, advocated for a secular state as a means to ensure social justice and equality for all, regardless of caste or religion.
5. Pluralistic Perspective: Some sociologists view secularization in India as a reflection of its inherent pluralism. India has been home to multiple religions and philosophies for centuries, and this diversity has necessitated a level of tolerance and coexistence. Secularization, in this context, can be seen as a societal norm that has evolved to manage and accommodate religious diversity.
6. Societal Secularization: There’s a perspective that focuses on the gradual reduction of religious influence on societal norms, values, and institutions. It’s observed in the increasing acceptance of interfaith marriages, a decrease in the importance of religious rituals in daily life, and more reliance on science and rationality.

These interpretations are not mutually exclusive and often overlap. However, each offers a unique lens to understand the complex and multifaceted nature of secularization in Indian society. It’s also important to note that secularization is an ongoing and dynamic process, subject to reinterpretation and renegotiation over time.