Question

Write short note.

Unity in diversity in Indian society

Answer 1

i. India is a land of ‘Unity in diversity.’ Unity implies oneness while the term diversity indicates variety. The phrase ‘Unity in diversity’ refers to the state of togetherness or oneness in spite of immense diversity.

ii. Indian society is characterised by integration of the plural traditions and cultural practices which gives it a sense of ‘we-ness’.

iii. The unity in diversity in our country can be explained with the help of following points:

1. Geographical unity: The sharing of different geographical structures and natural resources like rivers and forests provide people a sense of oneness and unites them together. 
2. Religious unity: Although various religions have external differences, there are some commonly shared elements amongst them.
3. Political unity: National unity and integrity are maintained even though socio-economic inequalities have obstructed the emergence of an egalitarian society.
4. Linguistic unity: Every language in the country, whether regional or national, is treated equally. 
5. Cultural unity: Indian culture exhibits cultural unity that is reflected in the literature and thoughts of different communities, despite the differences in their customs and traditions.

iv. In short, at the root of all diversities, there exists an underlying unity in India. However, unity does not mean uniformity.

v. D.P. Singhal, in his book ‘India and World Civilisations’, stated that unity in diversity is a theme that runs through the entire course of Indian history.

vi. The inner strength of India lies in our ability to accommodate variety and multiplicity within the framework of larger unity.