INTRODUCTION

Topic: Impact of different religious influences on Mob Psychology in India.

In the diverse landscape of India, religion plays a pivotal role in shaping not only individual

identities but also collective behaviours and societal dynamics. The intertwining of various

religious beliefs, rituals, and practices has been a defining characteristic of the Indian social

fabric for centuries. Among the multifaceted manifestations of religion in India, one

intriguing aspect is its impact on mob psychology – the collective behaviour of groups in

moments of heightened emotion or agitation. This qualitative study aims to delve into the

intricate interplay between different religious influences and mob psychology in the Indian

context.

India, with its presence of religions including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, among

others, presents a unique canvas for exploring the complexities of religious influence on

collective behaviour. Throughout history, incidents involving mobs have often been

intertwined with religious sentiments, be it communal riots, protests, or acts of violence.

Understanding the role of religion in shaping these occurrences is essential for

comprehending the dynamics of social cohesion and conflict resolution in India.

Religious influences on mob psychology can be examined through various lenses. Firstly, the

doctrines and teachings of different religions propagate distinct values, beliefs, and norms,

which can significantly impact the mind set of individuals and communities. For instance,

Hinduism, with its emphasis on karma and dharma, may instil concepts of duty and

righteousness among its followers, influencing their actions within a group setting. Moreover,

religious symbolism and rituals often serve as powerful catalysts for mobilizing crowds and
shaping their behaviour. Processions, festivals, and religious gatherings provide platforms for

collective expressions of faith, solidarity, and identity. However, these gatherings can also

become arenas for the amplification of emotions, leading to instances of mob frenzy or

fanaticism. Exploring how religious symbols, chants, and rituals influence the psyche of

individuals within a mob is crucial for understanding the mechanisms through which

religious factors shape collective behaviour.

Furthermore, the socio-political context within which religious identities operate cannot be

overlooked. Historical grievances, economic disparities, and political manipulation often

intersect with religious affiliations, exacerbating tensions and fuelling mob dynamics. For

instance, issues like the Babri Masjid demolition or the Gujarat riots have been deeply

entangled with religious sentiments but have also been driven by broader socio-political

factors.

The rich tapestry of religious diversity in India, characterized by the coexistence of

Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and other faiths, intricately weaves its way into the

social, cultural, and political realms of the nation. Within this complex mosaic, the impact of

religious influences on mob psychology emerges as a compelling area of study, offering

insights into the dynamics of collective behaviour and societal cohesion. This qualitative

research delves into the interactions between Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and

mob psychology, makes it clear the new ways in which these religious traditions shape group

dynamics in India.

Hinduism: Hinduism is a major religious and cultural tradition in India, encompassing a

wide range of beliefs, practices, and philosophies. It is characterized by its diversity and

flexibility, allowing for a multitude of interpretations and expressions. Central tenets include

the concepts of dharma (righteous duty), karma (action and its consequences), and moksha
(liberation from the cycle of reincarnation). Hinduism reveres a vast pantheon of deities, with

rituals, festivals, and pilgrimage sites playing significant roles in religious life. Hinduism also

encompasses various philosophical schools, such as Vedanta, Samkhya, and Yoga, which

offer distinct paths to spiritual realization.

Islam: Islam in India is practiced by a significant minority population, making it one of the

largest Muslim-majority countries in the world. It originated with the teachings of Prophet

Muhammad and is based on the Quran, the central religious text, and the Hadith, the recorded

sayings and actions of the Prophet. Islam emphasizes the oneness of God (Allah), submission

to His will, and adherence to the Five Pillars of Islam: Shahada (faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat

(charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). In India, Islam

has been shaped by diverse cultural influences, resulting in rich traditions of architecture,

literature, and cuisine.

Sikhism: Sikhism emerged in the Punjab region of India in the 15th century under the

guidance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and subsequent Sikh Gurus. It emphasizes the belief in one

God, equality of all human beings, and the pursuit of selfless service (seva) and social justice.

The Sikh scripture, Guru Granth Sahib, is considered the eternal Guru and serves as a source

of spiritual guidance. Sikhism is characterized by its distinct identity markers, including the

wearing of the Five Ks (Kesh, Kara, Kirpan, Kanga, and Kachera) and the practice of

congregational worship in Gurdwaras. Sikhism has played a significant role in shaping the

socio-cultural landscape of Punjab and beyond.

Christianity: Christianity arrived in India with the arrival of European colonizers, and it has

since become one of the major religious traditions in the country. Indian Christianity

encompasses diverse denominations, including Catholicism, Protestantism, and Eastern

Orthodoxy, each with its own doctrinal emphases and practices. Central to Christianity is the
belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity, as revealed in the Bible,

the sacred scripture. Christian worship typically includes rituals such as prayer, sacraments

(such as baptism and communion), and congregational gatherings for worship and fellowship.

Christianity has made significant contributions to education, healthcare, and social reform in

India.

Hinduism, as the predominant religion in India, exerts a profound influence on the collective

psyche of its adherents. The concept of dharma, or righteous duty, underscores Hindu ethical

thought, guiding individual and communal actions. In mob settings, this ethos may manifest

in the form of self-regulation and restraint, as individuals are guided by the principles of

karma and the pursuit of spiritual advancement. However, Hindu religious gatherings and

processions, such as the Kumbh Mela or Rath Yatra, also serve as potential flashpoints for

mob psychology, where fervent devotion and collective enthusiasm can escalate into chaotic

or even violent situations.

Islam, as a significant religious presence in India, brings its own set of dynamics to mob

psychology. The concept of ummah, or the global Muslim community, fosters a sense of

solidarity and brotherhood among believers, which can be mobilized in moments of

collective action. Examples abound, such as protests against perceived injustices or

demonstrations in support of causes aligned with Islamic principles. However, the

politicization of religious identity and the manipulation of religious symbols can also fuel

tensions, leading to instances of mob violence as witnessed in various communal clashes

across the country. However, these days the increasing population associated with certain

crimes and serious conversion over the centuries during the Mughal rule until this day has
also influenced different groups of mobs in both positive and negative ways having impacts

in different ways.

Christianity, though a minority religion in India, wields considerable influence, particularly in

certain regions and communities. The teachings of love, forgiveness, and social justice

espoused by Christianity can engender empathy and compassion within groups, mitigating

the potential for mob violence. Churches and Christian gatherings often serve as spaces for

peaceful assembly and collective prayer, fostering a sense of community cohesion. However,

instances of religious persecution or interfaith tensions can also incite mob behaviour, as seen

in incidents of attacks on Christian churches or missionaries in certain parts of the country.

Over the last decade majorly, there has been consistent rise in the religious conversion

because of certain Christian groups involved into this. The geographical locations of India

especially eastern and northern India in which certain indigenous and tribal groups have been

the target of conversion over the years.

Sikhism, with its emphasis on egalitarianism, courage, and community service, offers a

unique perspective on mob psychology in India. The concept of seva, or selfless service,

instills a sense of duty towards the welfare of others, which can manifest in collective efforts

to address social injustices or provide aid in times of crisis. Sikh religious processions, such

as Nagar Kirtans, exemplify communal solidarity and cultural pride, often drawing large

crowds in a spirit of celebration and devotion. However, historical grievances and political

tensions, such as those surrounding the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, highlight the vulnerability of

Sikh communities to mob violence fueled by religious and ethnic animosities. The growing

count of the Khalistan ideology has influenced the mob especially since the past decade and

the recognition of this situation has already reached overseas. Numerous riots and protests,

the farmers protests from the states of Punjab and Haryana has increased as well.
In this qualitative study, we aim to explore the different ways in which different religious

influences intersect with mob psychology in India. Through group discussions, and

ethnographic observations, we seek to uncover the underlying motivations, perceptions, and

experiences of individuals involved in mob incidents across religious divides. By capturing

the lived realities of diverse communities, we hope to illuminate the intricate tapestry of

religious influences on collective behaviour and contribute to broader discussions on social

cohesion and conflict resolution in multicultural societies like India.