The Idea of Universal Orthopraxy
The Mahakumbh Mela, one of the largest gatherings of people for religious purposes worldwide, has just concluded in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The Kumbh Mela takes place every 12 years by rotation at four locations—at Haridwar, on the banks of the Ganga River; at Prayagraj, at the confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical invisible Sarasvati River; at Nashik, on the banks of the Godavari River; and at Ujjain, on the banks of the Shipra River. The Kumbh Mela illustrates the significance of water in spirituality and the vibrant tapestry of Indian religious life. One grand cycle (Mahakumbh) is completed every 144 years. Six hundred fifty million people bathed over 45 days this year. Nothing like this has ever happened in the history of the world. It was voluntary, done out of personal expenses, and not bound by any holy injunction—a unique feature of Sanatan Dharma.
In Hinduism, ritual performance, adherence to dharma (moral and ethical duties), and participation in festivals play crucial roles in individual and community life. While many philosophical schools within Hinduism explore different beliefs and understandings of the divine, emphasising rituals and practices is a defining feature. This means that individual interpretations of belief can vary widely, but community-level practices and rituals unify followers in their devotion. People from all strata of society, rising above sects and local identities, come together as one humanity. Performing the ritual is often considered as important as studying scriptures and meditation. Even though there have been efforts to intellectualise orthopraxy since the Enlightenment, it remains a crucial component of all religions.
Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902) best represented a more inclusive and philosophical approach to Hinduism. He respected traditional beliefs (orthodoxy) and emphasised that direct experience and practice (orthopraxy) were crucial for spiritual development. Spiritual practice and personal experience are fundamental to understanding the divine, and yoga and meditation serve as pathways to realisation. Before the World Parliament of Religions, held in Chicago in 1893, Swami Vivekananda eloquently demonstrated that the tenets of Hinduism were all-encompassing and that the Hindu religion stood for tolerance and universal acceptance.
It was a historical moment reflecting how India rose in the modern world. What does the contemporary world need most? Free market economies have produced better living standards and an expanding middle class. This magnitude of gathering would have been impossible without rapid transportation, communication, and computer networks—the hallmarks of the 21st-century world that India has fully embraced. The rise of Indian-origin people in multinational corporations and the availability of the best global products in India testify to the changing role of international boundaries. People coming to the Kumbh Mela from various states all over India, travelling long distances and from abroad too, marked orthopraxy, replacing orthodox mindsets.
Is an era of universal orthopraxy imminent? Is there a movement towards revitalising the practice of correct actions and rituals in various religious or philosophical traditions, emphasising practical application over mere belief systems? In an increasingly technology-driven world, many are seeking meaning and connection through practices that foster community and spirituality, highlighting the importance of how we live our values rather than merely what we believe. There is a greater appreciation for actively practising one’s beliefs. Being confident while representing your opinion is at the root of self-confidence among the youth, who thronged to the Kumbh Mela not because someone told them to but because they felt like going there. More than ten million people were provided free meals daily by various voluntary organisations, and people showed exemplary discipline and bonhomie.
There is a growing trend towards personal experience and direct engagement with spirituality, as people seek authentic connections through practices rather than dogmatic beliefs. Advocating for an orthopraxy renaissance could reflect a desire for more integrated and actionable expressions of spirituality and ethics in today’s complex world. This movement would encourage people to focus on living out their values in practice, fostering deeper connections with themselves, their communities and the divine. Orthopraxy is palpable.
The concept of a universal orthopraxy follows next. Can an agreed-upon set of practices and rituals transcend different cultures and religions? Many traditions emphasise similar ethical principles, such as compassion, honesty and justice. A universal orthopraxy could unify practices that embody these values across various cultures. Practices centred around environmental stewardship and social responsibility may serve as a common ground that many communities could adopt, promoting a sense of global responsibility. Practices like mindfulness, meditation and other forms of holistic well-being have gained international popularity, suggesting that certain spiritual practices can transcend cultural boundaries. Acts of service and altruism can resonate across different societies and religions, promoting the idea that helping others is a universal practice.
A universal orthopraxy might emphasise cross-cultural exchanges and collaborations facilitated by the Internet and digital communication. This could lead to the blending of ideas and practices, fostering creativity and innovation across borders. With the rise of digital media, artists might explore new forms of expression through virtual reality, augmented reality and interactive installations. This movement could challenge traditional concepts of art and push boundaries in creativity.
An emphasis on sustainable practices and environmental consciousness could shift the focus to humanism. This might involve innovations in sustainable agriculture, green technology and conservation efforts. Though every religion promotes humanism, it is traditionally viewed as a philosophical and ethical stance emphasising human values, reason and individual agency. However, religious doctrines overshadow it. Promoting dialogues and collaborations regarding practices that emphasise shared values might be more feasible than establishing a singular set of practices everyone must follow. Can social media and online platforms lead to the creation of networks where individuals can share their practices, experiences and insights on ethical living?
Why not host celebrations or events highlighting diverse customs and practices while focusing on compassion, community and kindness as themes? The need is to integrate humanity around commonalities, not divide it along the dissimilarities. Victor Hugo (1802–1885), the legendary French writer, in his novel Les Misérables, made one of his characters say, “An army cannot stop an idea whose time has come”. This powerful statement expresses that once a concept or idea gains momentum and widespread acceptance, it becomes unstoppable, regardless of the forces against it, including political or military power.
Historical events like the Kumbh Mela, which have been ongoing since time immemorial, testify that when people recognise the importance and validity of an idea, it can lead to significant societal changes, even in the face of oppression or resistance. It answers how the Hindu society survived a thousand years of foreign rule and experienced a resurgence.
Multitudes are the most potent force on Earth. Is it too much to ask whether some steps can aim to build connections and highlight commonalities between different religions for the good of humanity? Or, why ask? It will happen anyway. When the multitude realises that an environmentally sound, equitable world and sustainable living are good for it and the future generations, the way the world moves will be different. It will happen, whether we call it orthopraxy or even choose to ignore it.
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Great Blog Prof Tiwari ji. the recently concluded Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj stands as an evidence to the spiritual, cultural, and philosophical richness of India. Gathering of millions, bound by faith and personal conviction, reflects the essence of Sanatan Dharma—where devotion is lived through action. The discussion on orthopraxy—the emphasis on correct practice and ethical conduct over mere belief—adds a profound dimension to this event. As the world evolves, traditions like the Kumbh Mela remind us that authentic experiences and shared values will always hold the key to deeper human connections, fostering unity amidst diversity.
Thank you, Sir, for introducing Orthopraxy. We are all familiar with orthodoxy, which is “correct teaching” or “correct doctrine.” If someone is orthodox, it means that he/she believe correctly. Some people place more emphasis on correct doctrine. However, an increasing number of people seem to care little for doctrine but heavily emphasise proper deeds. Correct doctrine will lead to appropriate behavior, but the doctrine comes first. Those who offer their bodies as a living sacrifice, receive God’s mercy. There is no contradiction amongst scriptures of the world’s major religions, so universal orthopraxy seems logical and possible.
This is a new word I have learned from your blog, Tauji. It is fascinating to know that what you do (orthopraxy) should reflect what you believe (orthodoxy). One should not trump the other; instead, they should work in harmony because you cannot have one without the other. As an expression of our religious faith, orthopraxy is good. The Scriptures clearly support correct deeds and actions as important as our beliefs. What good is it, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? But your idea of a universal orthopraxy is interesting.
The blog beautifully highlights the significance of ritual in Hinduism and its potential to transcend individual belief systems, urging a global shift toward “orthopraxy” — the practice of living one’s values rather than merely believing in them. It resonates deeply with the idea that practices like compassion, environmental stewardship, and service are universal and can unite humanity across cultures and religions. It’s a thought-provoking piece that challenges us to reconsider how we live our values and connect with others, both locally and globally. A truly insightful reflection on the intersection of tradition, modernity, and spirituality.
Rare are the occasions in today’s fast-paced society that may unite millions of people to achieve something bigger than themselves. The ancient pilgrimage was celebrated from 13 January 2025 to 26 February 2025. By the end of the 45th day, the anticipated turnout of 450 million devotees had been surpassed and reached 660 million.
I must add to your excellent blog that the BHASHINI AI toll ensured a smooth experience for millions of pilgrims by providing multilingual access in 11 Indian languages and offering real-time support. The AI-powered, multilingual, voice-enabled chatbot was essential in helping pilgrims. It offered real-time navigation and event-related data driven by cutting-edge AI technologies such as Llama LLM. BHASHINI made sure that everyone could use the chatbot.
Sir, Participating in the Kumbh Mela was more than enjoying a spectacular event; it was also about learning about my heritage and the strength of our shared religion. The fervor of the audience, the calmness of the ceremonies, and the modesty of the worshippers made me reflect on life’s meaning and purpose. My mother stayed there for one entire month.
Going to the Kumbh Mela was a valuable adventure, offering a window into the human spirit, it is an encounter that knows no boundaries of race, creed, or nationality. Kumbh Mela provided something for everyone, whether looking for cultural immersion, spiritual awakening, or a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I had a sense of fulfillment, mental clarity, and spiritual elevation as I departed from the hallowed grounds of Prayagraj.
Very thought provoking sir. The question that often comes to my mind is, throughout history, religion has been divided more than united. Perhaps more blood has been spilt in the name of religion than for any other cause – not so for Hinduism so far, but voices are getting shriller, in reactive more. Why does mankind divide in the name of God?
Namaste Arunji. Having got the opportunity to visit Kumbh mela last month, this article just refreshed the entire experience. We stayed there for 3 days and cherished every bit of it. The auro and the vibes around the place and the attitude of people involved in logistics or security or any kind of public service or even those who just walked tens and hundreds of kilometers for the dip was just truly amazing. For the size of country that we are, the challenges we have, there was definitely some divine power at work to see it through so well!
Loved the concept of orthopraxy. Didn’t hear this term before but after reading about it a little, it definitely feels like interesting vision. There have been multiple attempts by individuals and organizations probably made since time immemorial but somewhere the selfishness doesn’t let two brothers stay together as well often. So, the world with all the diversities can find a common path forward seems less likely to achieve. The co-relation with Kumbh may not be the most appropriate here.
Dear Arun bhai, How beautifully you have captured the event of Mahakumbh Mela to explain the concept on Universal Orthopraxy and the evolving need of the same in this world where digital communication is changing the way of life and thought process.
The benefits of all good and common practises across religions , cultures and societies across the world makes a platform to work together for the benefit of mankind by following Orthopraxy , is a great idea which needs promotion . Thanks for sharing . Another masterpiece article by you .
Thank you Arun ji for picking this topic. The high light is the need to integrate humanity around commonalities and not dividing on dissimilarities. Very good message. Another powerful message is that once an idea gets wide spread acceptance, it becomes un-stoppable. Thank you.
Sir, Pardon me. Attending mela, visiting the temple, praying to God, and doing all things for his inner peace and keeping societal values for a common good: coexistence and cooperation among people and society.
The other side is highly vulnerable because a man never concerns himself with his sound or existence; his aim is always for everyday good or societal existence, for example, Mahatma Gandhi. I worship in the second category of people because they suffer and sacrifice for greater purposes. Thank you.
It is a good article.
Thought provoking too.
Personal experiences come to the fore and strengthen the belief as demonstrated in the MAHA KUMBH – what an event…
Namaskars to all.
Congratulations on a thought-provoking blog. I agree with you that we need to focus on practices that bring humanity together. I have devoted my life to the practice of organized altruism by establishing bone marrow registries around the globe. What better way of bringing humanity together than being willing to donate one’s marrow to save the life of another person, no matter where they are around the world. I started this effort in 1983 in the United States, where we have established the National Marrow Donor Program, also known as Be the Match. Thus far, there are over 35 million HLA-marrow typed voluntary donors in the information base of the National Marrow Donor Program, half of the donors being from the United States and half from other countries. This information is stored on a computer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Under the laws of genetics there is a 25% chance that a sibling will be a perfect match for a bone marrow transplant for a bone marrow disease such as leukemia, aplastic anemia, or other blood cancers. Without a sibling match one needs an unrelated marrow donor, someone from outside the immediate family. At this point India has a small registry of 7 million HLA-marrow typed donors. For India to have a viable registry for its 1.5 billion people it will need 80 million HLA marrow typed donors. Marrow is not like blood, which has four types. There are many different types of marrow, and finding matching marrow is like looking for a needle in a haystack. I will be in India again in March to establish the Give Life Foundation Marrow Registry for India to provide India with the marrow registry that it needs. To give a concrete example, assume a little girl in Hyderabad has leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant. Assume further that she has no sibling with marrow that matches her marrow type. The family will need to find a donor from outside the family, what we call an unrelated marrow donor. That is where the registry comes in the picture. India now depends on the United States for its marrow donors. There are five million Indians in the diaspora in the United States, and if a match is found, the marrow is shipped to Hyderabad with a courier for the bone marrow transplant. India should have its own viable and independent registry and not have to rely on the United States for its donors. The beauty of the marrow registry is that it is a global mechanism that can bring us all together and make us blood brothers and blood sisters. It is little understood, even by physicians in India, that marrow is a fluid organ that can be transplanted into another person. Not a solid organ like the heart, liver, kidney, or pancreas, but a fluid organ that is easily obtained. To join the marrow registry all one has to do is have a swab of the mouth and if the voluntary donor matches a patient in need, the marrow is then harvested by removing the stem cells from the blood using a special machine. This is a painless procedure that requires about three hours. It would be totally within the spirit of the Kumbh Mela and the teachings of Lord Krishna to sign up for the marrow registry that we will create. So how does all of this relate to religion, the Hindu religion or any other religion. Abrahan Lincoln said: “When I do good, I feel good. When I do bad, I feel bad. That’s my religion.” To sign up for the marrow registry, and then be a donor if your marrow matches that of a patient in need, is to do good. And to quote Victor Hugo’s character, that is an idea whose time has come.
Arunji, What an apt piece of writing at the conclusion of Maha Khumb!
This is a compelling and insightful perspective on the significance of Kumbh Mela and the growing emphasis on orthopraxy in contemporary spirituality. I agree that direct engagement with spiritual practices is becoming increasingly important and that shared ethical values can serve as a unifying force across cultures.
However, I feel that the idea of a ‘universal orthopraxy’ might be challenging to achieve in practice. While commonalities exist, religious and cultural traditions are deeply rooted in specific histories, making a singular, agreed-upon set of practices less feasible. That said, fostering dialogue and collaboration around shared values is undoubtedly a worthwhile pursuit.
Dear Sir, Thank you for sharing another thought-provoking blog.
The Kumbh Mela’s grandeur beautifully echoes the Bhagavad Gita’s timeless wisdom and the Mahabharata’s essence. Just as Lord Krishna guided Arjuna to uphold his dharma (righteous duty) without attachment to the outcome, the millions who gather at the Kumbh embody this principle, transcending sectarian and societal divides in their devotion. This profound confluence of faith and action reflects the true spirit of Sanatan Dharma—where orthopraxy (practice) holds equal importance to belief.
The statement, ‘An army cannot stop an idea whose time has come,’ resonates deeply with the Gita’s teachings. Just as Krishna assured Arjuna that dharma and truth are unstoppable forces when the moment is right, history has shown that no opposition can halt an idea whose time has arrived. The Kurukshetra war was inevitable for establishing righteousness, as significant societal transformations are guided by destiny and the unwavering force of truth. Perhaps, as the blog suggests, we are witnessing the dawn of a universal orthopraxy. In this era, spirituality is not merely contemplated but lived, shaping humanity’s more harmonious and sustainable future. Warm Regards,
Dear Prof., What a beautiful and academically intriguing piece! Orthopraxy seems to be more universal and uniting than orthodoxy. The different traditions and cultural influences deeply influence beliefs.
Who is best placed to advocate for universal orthopraxy? A good question for all of us …
In my view it is the insistence on following a ritual that has caused all the violence in history in the name of religion. Some people say if you do not follow certain ritual (which obviously is designed to control your mind and purse eventually) you do not belong to that religion. Religion is fine but rituals are not.
Coincidentally, the moment I started to read this blog, i kept asking what would be the unifying “deal” for the good expressed across cultures the world over. And then you said it further down the blog: “Why not host celebrations or events highlighting diverse customs and practices while focusing on compassion, community and kindness as themes? ”
Therein lies a starting point. who shall make the call………