Sects of Buddhism in India: A Legacy of Diversity and Revival
Buddhism, Propounded by Bhagwan Buddha—in the 6th century BCE, originated in India and spread across Asia over centuries. Although Buddhism declined in its land of origin due to various historical factors, it never completely vanished. In modern India, Buddhism is witnessing a vibrant revival through various sects that offer spiritual, philosophical, and social guidance to millions. There are primarily three traditional sects of Buddhism practiced in India—Theravāda, Mahāyāna, and Vajrayāna—along with a modern reformist movement known as Navayāna.
1. Theravāda Buddhism: The Teaching of the Elders
Theravāda, the oldest surviving school of Buddhism, emphasizes the original teachings of the Buddha as preserved in the Pāli Canon. It focuses on attaining individual enlightenment, or becoming an Arhat, through discipline, meditation, and wisdom. Although Theravāda Buddhism disappeared from India during the medieval period, it was revived in the 20th century, especially through the efforts of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who adopted and adapted it for social reform.
Today, Theravāda Buddhism is prominent among Neo-Buddhists, primarily from the Dalit communities in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and other parts of India. These followers, although inspired by Theravāda doctrines, often combine them with Ambedkarite principles of social justice, equality, and resistance to caste oppression.
2. Mahāyāna Buddhism: The Great Vehicle
Mahāyāna Buddhism arose around the 1st century CE and is characterized by its Bodhisattva ideal—where one strives not just for personal enlightenment but for the liberation of all beings. It introduced new scriptures in Sanskrit, such as the Lotus Sutra, Heart Sutra, and Diamond Sutra, which broadened the philosophical framework of Buddhism.
In India, Mahāyāna is prevalent in regions with historical and cultural Tibetan ties, such as Ladakh, parts of Himachal Pradesh, and the northeastern states. It has also influenced modern intellectual and philosophical Buddhist movements in Indian academia and spiritual circles.
3. Vajrayāna Buddhism: The Thunderbolt Vehicle
Vajrayāna, also called Tantric Buddhism, developed as a subset of Mahāyāna but evolved into a distinct sect due to its esoteric practices, use of mantras, rituals, and symbolic meditations. It is most visibly represented today through Tibetan Buddhism, which has a strong presence in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh—home to the Tibetan Government-in-Exile and the 14th Dalai Lama.
Tibetan Vajrayāna is divided into four major schools: Gelugpa, Kagyu, Nyingma, and Sakya. These schools offer rich spiritual teachings, meditation practices, and philosophical doctrines that draw practitioners from both the Himalayan regions and across India.
4. Navayāna Buddhism: The New Path
Navayāna, meaning “New Vehicle,” was established by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in 1956 as a socially conscious and rational reinterpretation of Buddhism. Rejecting the traditionalist caste-based inequalities of Hinduism, Ambedkar embraced Buddhism as a liberating ideology for the oppressed classes, particularly the Dalits.
Navayāna departs from the traditional metaphysical focus of older sects and emphasizes equality, rationality, morality, and social transformation. It is a major force in contemporary Indian Buddhism, with millions of followers across several Indian states. While it draws some inspiration from Theravāda texts, Navayāna stands as a modern sect with a distinct socio-political message.
Conclusion
Buddhism in India today is a reflection of its historical roots and modern reinvention. From the ancient wisdom of Theravāda and Mahāyāna to the mysticism of Vajrayāna and the revolutionary vision of Navayāna, the sects of Buddhism together form a vibrant mosaic of belief systems and practices. Each sect serves unique spiritual and social needs, ensuring that the legacy of the Buddha continues to thrive in the land of his birth.
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