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Bharat as a Civilizational Nation: Unscrambling the Treads of Tradition and

Modernity (Journal: Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences)

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Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences
(A Biannual Journal of M.P. Institute of Social Science Research, Ujjain)
ISSN: 0973-855X (Vol. 29, No. 1, June 2024, pp. 1-10)
UGC-CARE (Group-I)

Bharat as a Civilisational Nation: Unscrambling

the Treads of Tradition and Modernity
Asis Mistry*
Bharat, known colloquially as India, stands as a remarkable example of a
civilisational nation, where the threads of tradition and modernity are
intricately interwoven. Its rich history, spanning thousands of years, has
been marked by a profound continuity of cultural, spiritual, and
philosophical traditions. At the same time, India has embraced the forces
of modernity, undergoing rapid economic, technological, and societal
transformations. This juxtaposition of ancient wisdom and contemporary
dynamism makes India a fascinating case study for understanding how a
nation can navigate the complexities of maintaining its cultural heritage
while actively participating in the modern globalised world. The
continuous evolution of Bharat's identity, rooted in its civilisational ethos,
serves as a source of inspiration and inquiry, offering insights into the
delicate balance between tradition and progress that many societies
grapple with in the 21st century.
Key Words: Bharat, Civilisational Nation, Nationalism, India.

Introduction
Bharat stands as a captivating mosaic of antiquity and innovation, a

nation where the tradition and the contemporary coexist in a vibrant

tapestry of culture, philosophy, and society. This land, with its multifaceted

*Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata (WB).

E-mail: [email protected]
 Bharat as a Civilisational Nation...
identity, is emblematic of the concept of a civilisational nation, where the

roots of tradition run deep, and the branches of modernity reach high. For

millennia, India has been a crucible of profound philosophical thought,

diverse religious practices, and a repository of timeless traditions. Yet, it is

also a nation in the throes of rapid urbanisation, technological advancement,

and globalisation. The juxtaposition of these seemingly contrasting facets

within the same geographical boundaries invites exploration into the

dynamics of continuity and change, tradition and progress. This research

paper embarks on a journey to unravel the intricate threads that bind India's

civilisational past to its aspirations for a modern future, shedding light on

the enduring relevance of its ancient wisdom in a rapidly evolving world.

Review of Literature
Romila Thapar (Thapar, 2002) and R.S. Sharma (Sharma, 1965) have

explored India’s ancient past, excavating the foundational texts like the

Vedas and Upanishads to illuminate the deep-seated philosophical and

cultural underpinnings that define India’s civilisational heritage. Amartya

Sen (Sen, 2006) and Ashis Nandy (Nandy, 1994) have delved into the

intersection of tradition and modernity in India's socio-political context,

highlighting the complexities of a nation striving to harmonise its ancient

wisdom with the imperatives of the contemporary world. The impact of

colonialism on India's cultural identity has been extensively studied, with

works by authors like Edward Said (Said, 1978) offering insights into the

dynamics of colonialism and the subsequent struggle for independence.

More recent research has explored India’s soft power and global influence

and the role of its diaspora in shaping its civilisational narrative (Bhatt,

2020). Dipesh Chakrabarty (2008) has explored postcolonial perspectives on

India's engagement with modernity and its historical narratives. Amartya

Sen’s (2006) work discusses India’s pluralistic intellectual tradition,

emphasising its role in shaping the nation’s contemporary identity.

Doniger’s (2009) delves into the complexity of Hindu traditions and their

evolution. Moreover, studies on India’s ancient texts and philosophy are

extensive, with works by scholars like Frits Staal and Swami Vivekananda

providing insights into the philosophical underpinnings of India’s

civilisational heritage. The existing literature, therefore, underscores the

multidisciplinary nature of the research surrounding India’s civilisational

identity, with studies drawing from history, philosophy, political science,

and cultural studies to unravel the intricate relationship between tradition

and modernity in India’s national consciousness.

2 Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences 29:1 (2024)

 Mistry
Interrogating the Idea of the Origin of Nation
Anderson's concept of the nation, as articulated in his seminal work

'Imagined Communities' (1983), revolves around the idea that nations are

modern and are imagined into existence by their members. He argues that

nations are not purely natural or objective entities but rather a product of

collective imagination, shaped by shared cultural symbols, linguistic ties, and

a sense of belonging among their citizens. Anderson’s theory underscores the

role of print capitalism, particularly the proliferation of newspapers and

printed materials, in fostering a sense of shared identity and community

among people who may never meet in person but come to envision

themselves as part of a larger, cohesive nation. In essence, Anderson’s notion

of the nation emphasises the subjective and cultural dimensions of

nationalism, challenging traditional notions of nationhood as purely rooted in

historical or territorial factors. However, Anderson’s framework tends to

overlook the historical and cultural continuities that exist within nations.

While nations may have experienced a surge in their sense of identity and

community during the modern era, this does not negate the presence of deep-

rooted historical, linguistic, and cultural ties that predate modernity. Many

nations including India, China, Japan, and so on draw upon ancient histories,

myths, and traditions to legitimise their modern identities. The historical

continuity and deep cultural heritage of India boasts a recorded history that

spans several millennia, with roots dating back to the Indus Valley

Civilisation (around 3300–1300 BCE). Throughout this vast time frame, India

has nurtured an unbroken tradition of art, literature, philosophy, and

spiritual practices. Its ancient texts, including the Vedas, Upanishads, and

epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, continue to exert a profound

influence on its culture and society. This historical continuum, marked by

diverse dynasties, empires, and regional kingdoms, underscores the enduring

civilisational character of India.

Is Bharat an Imagined Community?

Benedict Anderson’s theory of the nation as an imagined community

has its limitations, particularly when applied to diverse nations like Bharat.

While Anderson’s framework highlights the role of shared language, culture,

and print media in forming national identity, it does not adequately address

the complexities of a country like India. India’s identity is deeply rooted in a

millennia-old civilisation with a staggering array of languages, religions, and

cultural traditions. The notion of 'unity in diversity' is not merely an

imagined concept; it reflects the tangible coexistence of myriad sub-cultures

Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences - ISSN: 0973-855X 3

 Bharat as a Civilisational Nation...
and linguistic groups. Furthermore, India’s historical and civilisational

continuity, dating back to ancient texts and empires, challenges Anderson’s

notion that nations are purely modern constructs. Anderson's framework,

centred around European experiences, does not easily apply to countries

with diverse and ancient heritages like Bharat, where the idea of the nation

transcends mere imagination and carries profound historical and cultural

significance. For instance, Anderson’s theory places significant emphasis on

the role of a shared language in forming a sense of national identity. In many

European contexts, this shared linguistic base played a crucial role in the

development of national consciousness. However, in India, a country with

hundreds of languages and dialects spoken across its vast landscape,

language alone does not create a cohesive national identity. While Hindi is

recognised as one of India's official languages, there are many other

prominent languages like Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, and Gujarati, each with its

rich literary traditions and cultural significance. This linguistic diversity has

given rise to a multilingual, multicultural nation that defies the simplistic

notion of an 'imagined community' based solely on language. Furthermore,

India’s religious diversity also challenges Anderson's theory. While he

acknowledges religion’s role in shaping nations, India's complex religious

landscape, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism,

Jainism, and more, highlights the intricate interplay of religious and cultural

identities. These religions often coexist and interact harmoniously, further

complicating the idea that nations are mere constructs of the imagination.

The deep-rooted spiritual and religious traditions in India predate the

modern era and have played an integral role in shaping the nation’s identity.

Questioning the Post-Colonial Theory of Nation

While post-colonial theory has shed light on the enduring impact of

colonialism on the construction of Indian nationalism, it has oversimplified

the complex historical narrative of India’s struggle for independence. It

tends to homogenise the diverse nationalist movements within India,

overlooking the regional, linguistic, religious, and cultural variations that

played significant roles in shaping India's political landscape. Furthermore,

the post-colonial argument has downplayed the agency of Indian leaders

and activists in formulating and driving the nationalist agenda, painting

them as passive recipients of colonial influence. While colonialism

undoubtedly had a profound impact, India had a long history of resistance

and socio-political movements predating British rule. The post-colonial

argument may not adequately acknowledge the continuity of certain ideas,

4 Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences 29:1 (2024)

 Mistry
institutions, and traditions that contributed to the emergence of nationalist

sentiment. India’s rich intellectual heritage, which included discussions on

governance, justice, and identity in texts dating back centuries, played a

significant role in shaping nationalist thought. Partha Chatterjee’s

(Chatterjee, 1994) argument that nationalism is a derivative discourse

suggests that the concept of nationalism in post-colonial societies, including

India, is borrowed from Western models and fails to adequately address the

unique historical and cultural contexts of these nations. While this critique

underscores the importance of considering indigenous perspectives, it can be

overly reductionist in its portrayal of nationalism as a mere copycat

phenomenon. Nationalism in India, for example, has deep roots in its own

historical traditions and the struggles against colonial rule, making it more

than just a derivative of Western thought. Therefore, Chatterjee’s argument

underestimates the agency of nationalist leaders and the grassroots

movements that played pivotal roles in shaping the Indian nation-state.

While acknowledging the influence of colonialism is important, it’s equally

important to recognise the indigenous, context-specific factors that have

contributed to the development of nationalism in India.

Bharat: A Melting Pot or A Salad Bowl?

India, in its grandeur and complexity, resists the label of a 'melting

pot' nation for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, India's rich cultural tapestry is

woven from a myriad of diverse and distinct threads. Instead of

homogenising into a single cultural identity, these various groups have

proudly preserved their unique identities over millennia. India’s linguistic

diversity alone is a testament to this fact, with hundreds of languages spoken

across the nation, each with its own script, literature, and cultural nuances.

Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Punjabi, and countless others continue to flourish as

distinct linguistic entities, resisting the notion of linguistic assimilation that a

melting pot implies. Secondly, India's religious pluralism is a defining

characteristic. Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism,

and other religions have coexisted for centuries. These religious communities

maintain their distinct practices, rituals, and beliefs, often side by side in the

same neighbourhoods, and they are integral to the fabric of Indian society.

Rather than merging into a uniform religious identity, they contribute to

India's rich tapestry of faith. Thirdly, India's regional diversity is another

critical factor. Different regions have their own histories, customs, and

traditions. States like Kerala, Gujarat, Bengal, and Maharashtra have strong

regional identities that continue to shape their cultural practices, cuisine, and

Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences - ISSN: 0973-855X 5

 Bharat as a Civilisational Nation...
way of life. Regional languages, dialects, and art forms further reinforce the

uniqueness of each area. The persistence of the caste system is yet another

testament to India's resistance to melting pot homogeneity. Caste divisions

have endured for centuries, with each caste group maintaining its distinct

customs, rituals, and social roles, often isolated from one another.

India, more aptly characterised as a 'salad bowl' nation, embodies a

complex and vibrant amalgamation of diverse cultural, linguistic, and

religious elements that retain their individual identities while contributing to

the larger whole. The salad bowl metaphor captures the essence of India's

cultural diversity more accurately than the notion of a 'melting pot'. In a

melting pot, different elements merge and lose their distinctiveness to create

a uniform mixture, whereas in a salad bowl, each ingredient maintains its

unique flavour, texture, and character. India's linguistic diversity is a prime

example; it houses a multitude of languages and dialects, each representing a

distinct cultural heritage. Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Punjabi, and many others

thrive as unique linguistic entities, with their own literary traditions and

cultural nuances. Similarly, India's religious pluralism is emblematic of a

salad bowl, where Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism,

Jainism, and various other faiths coexist harmoniously, preserving their

distinct religious practices, rituals, and beliefs. Regional diversity further

contributes to India's salad bowl identity, as different states boast their own

histories, customs, and traditions, often celebrated with fervour. The

persistence of the caste system, with its intricate web of social identities and

roles, adds to the complexity of India's cultural salad bowl. Furthermore,

India's history bears the marks of both communal tensions and cultural

syncretism, with diverse groups influencing each other while maintaining

their individual identities. In this rich and multifaceted mosaic, India's

cultural elements come together, much like ingredients in a salad, creating a

harmonious and diverse nation where unity is not forged through the

dissolution of identities but rather through their celebration and coexistence.

Bharat: A Civilisational Nation?

India's status as a civilisational nation is deeply rooted in its ancient

history, rich cultural heritage, and enduring philosophical and spiritual

traditions that span millennia. One of the most compelling aspects of India's

civilisational identity lies in its historical continuity. India's civilisation can be

traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, which dates back to around

3300–1300 BCE. This civilisation demonstrated advanced urban planning, a

script system, and a complex society, showcasing early signs of a distinct

6 Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences 29:1 (2024)

 Mistry
civilisation. The subsequent Vedic period laid the foundation for many of

India’s philosophical, religious, and cultural traditions, with texts like the

Vedas and Upanishads shaping the spiritual and philosophical thought that

continues to influence Indian society to this day. India’s civilisational identity

is also deeply rooted in its cultural diversity and pluralism. The country is a

mosaic of languages, religions, and traditions, where diverse communities

have coexisted for centuries. Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Islam,

Christianity, and many other religions have found a home in India,

contributing to its unique tapestry of faiths. The concept of “unity in

diversity” is a central tenet of India's identity, where different cultural and

religious traditions are not homogenised but celebrated and preserved within

the broader national framework. India’s enduring philosophical and spiritual

legacy is a hallmark of its civilisational identity. Indian philosophy, with its

various schools of thought like Vedanta, Samkhya, Nyaya, and more, have

made profound contributions to global philosophical discourse. Concepts like

dharma, karma, moksha, and ahimsa have transcended borders and continue

to shape ethical and spiritual thinking worldwide. India’s spiritual traditions,

including yoga and meditation, have garnered international recognition for

their transformative potential, highlighting the enduring relevance of India’s

ancient wisdom. Therefore, India’s identity as a civilisational nation is not

merely a product of its modern nation-state but rather a result of its deep

historical roots, cultural diversity, and philosophical and spiritual traditions

that have been nurtured and evolved over millennia.

The concept of 'Aryavarta' serves as historical and cultural evidence

of Bharat’s nationhood. Aryavarta, often referred to as the 'Land of the

Aryans', was an ancient term used in Indian scriptures and texts to describe

the region where the Vedic civilisation flourished. It encompassed the

northern parts of the Indian subcontinent and is associated with the early

Vedic period. This term underscores the idea of a distinct geographical and

cultural entity with a shared identity. It not only points to the geographical

boundaries but also signifies a cultural and civilisational space where the

Vedic traditions, rituals, and language evolved. The notion of Aryavarta

reinforces the idea of Bharat as a nation with deep historical roots and a

sense of cultural continuity, tracing back to its ancient civilisation. While the

term’s usage has evolved over time, its historical significance underscores

the enduring idea of India as a coherent and ancient nation.

Bharat: A Nation-State?
The epic battle of Kurukshetra, as chronicled in the Mahabharata,

holds a pivotal place in constructing the idea of Bharat as a nation-state.

Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences - ISSN: 0973-855X 7

 Bharat as a Civilisational Nation...
Beyond its mythological and historical significance, the Kurukshetra war

symbolises a crucial moment in the evolution of a unified Bharat. The

conflict, which unfolded on the sacred plains of Kurukshetra, brought

together diverse kingdoms, each with its own warriors, allegiances, and

regional identities. It was not merely a war of succession but also a clash of

moral and ethical principles, wherein the Pandavas represented dharma

(righteousness) against the Kauravas’ adharma (unrighteousness). The epic

narrative of the Mahabharata, which includes philosophical dialogues and

moral dilemmas, underscores the idea of a shared civilisational ethos and the

pursuit of justice transcending regional boundaries. In the aftermath of the

battle, the Pandavas sought to establish a just and harmonious rule over a

united Bharat, reinforcing the notion of a nation-state emerging from the

crucible of Kurukshetra. The Kurukshetra war thus serves as a foundational

event that contributed to the forging of Bharat as a nation-state, rooted in

shared values, ethics, and a common civilisational heritage.

India’s historical and traditional identity as a nation-state is

exemplified by several key factors. First and foremost, ancient India was

characterised by a centralised political authority, often under the rule of

powerful empires and dynasties. For instance, the Mauryan Empire, under

the leadership of Ashoka, established a vast territorial domain in the 3rd

century BCE, with a centralised administration that included uniform laws

and governance systems. Similarly, the Gupta Empire in the 4th to 6th

centuries witnessed a high degree of political consolidation and cultural

flourishing across the Indian subcontinent. These empires showcased a

semblance of statehood and governance that transcended regional

boundaries. India’s historical adherence to a common legal framework,

known as dharma, helped unify diverse regions under a shared moral and

ethical code. Texts like the Manusmriti and Arthashastra codified laws and

regulations, reflecting a sense of a common societal structure and

governance. Additionally, the widespread use of Sanskrit as a language of

literature, scholarship, and administration across various regions

emphasised linguistic and cultural unity. India’s longstanding tradition of

pilgrimage centres, such as Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Mathura, served as

cultural and spiritual focal points that attracted people from across the

subcontinent. The presence of these centres contributed to a sense of shared

cultural and religious heritage, reinforcing the idea of a united nation-state.

Threads of Tradition and Modernity

India as a nation unveils a captivating narrative of a country at the

crossroads of ancient wisdom and contemporary dynamism. India's

8 Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences 29:1 (2024)

 Mistry
civilisational heritage, marked by centuries of historical continuity, provides

the backdrop for this intricate interplay. The threads of tradition run deep,

with a tapestry woven from the philosophical insights of ancient texts such

as the Vedas and Upanishads, the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana,

and the enduring influence of scholars like Adi Shankaracharya and

Chanakya. These foundational texts have not only shaped India’s religious

and philosophical thought but have also laid the groundwork for its moral

and ethical values. This rich legacy has, in turn, influenced India's societal

norms, governance structures, and cultural expressions. On the other hand,

the threads of modernity, represented by India's journey since gaining

independence in 1947, are equally compelling. The nation has undergone

rapid transformations in various spheres, including economics, technology,

politics, and society. The green revolution, economic liberalisation, and the

information technology boom have propelled India into a global player on

the economic stage. Simultaneously, the democratic principles enshrined in

its constitution have enabled a diverse and dynamic society to navigate the

challenges of nation-building, making India the world’s largest democracy.

The coexistence of tradition and modernity is particularly evident in India’s

approach to education, where ancient knowledge systems like yoga and

Ayurveda continue to thrive alongside contemporary fields of science and

technology. This juxtaposition offers a nuanced understanding of how India

has managed to embrace the forces of modernisation without forsaking its

profound civilisational roots. In this intricate tapestry, the concept of

“Bharat,” remains deeply ingrained in the national psyche, embodying the

fusion of tradition and modernity. As India forges ahead in the 21st century,

the process of disentanglement of these threads continues, offering insights

not only into the nation’s evolving identity but also into the delicate balance

between preserving its timeless heritage and actively participating in the

modern globalised world.

Conclusion
The exploration of India as a civilisational nation sheds light on the

intricate interplay between tradition and modernity that defines the essence

of Bharat. Through millennia of history, India has remained a crucible of

diverse cultures, philosophies, and religions, embracing and nurturing a

multitude of traditions. This has not been a passive preservation of heritage

but an active engagement, where ancient wisdom has continued to influence

modern thought, and timeless values have informed contemporary

aspirations. India's remarkable journey from its ancient Vedic texts to the

Madhya Pradesh Journal of Social Sciences - ISSN: 0973-855X 9

 Bharat as a Civilisational Nation...
digital age of the 21st century illustrates its ability to adapt, evolve, and

synthesise. The threads of tradition and modernity, far from being

antagonistic, are intertwined, creating a vibrant tapestry that is uniquely

Bharatiya. As we unravel the rich and complex fabric of Bharat, we are

confronted with a nation that bridges the past and the present, where ancient

principles coexist with cutting-edge innovations, and where cultural

pluralism and a profound sense of civilisational continuity form the bedrock

of its national identity. This exploration reminds us that Bharat, in all its

diversity and dynamism, remains a living testament to the enduring spirit of

a civilisational nation.

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