Is there a possibility for religion-free cultural spaces or do they already exist in India?
By religion-free I means spaces where religion isn't actively pushed or preached. Where the main attraction isn't a religious flavored monument or vista? Where the focal point may be more historical. If not historical, at the least general public spaces. And I am not just speaking of tourism. I am speaking of cultural spaces and media we consume. Like Movies, TV shows, and even the general discourse.
In my opinion 99% of the cultural spaces in the country is heavily dominated by any part of religious function or directly or indirectly targets religion. Even movies and TV shows all over the country actively makes sure to appease religion and portray it positively. This isn't just present day BJP phenomenon, but was also very common before 2014.
Tourism in India is just heavily religious. IRCTC and other govt lead organizations, as part of tourism promotion, actively promote religious places as the core experience of the religion. And even many so-called places which do not have religion as focus, still actively make sure that religion is visible or prominent. Like many treking places where I went had many Shiva Shrines which were prominent.
Non-religious means not making Ram, Krishna, Shiva the core aspect of something and starting to venerate them. Or Muhammad or Christ. I am not saying that there should not be such places. I am asking whether places where these entities are not actively a part of culture is possible?
- Do you think there are such places?
- if not, do you think we should have one?
Posted Sep 28, 2025, 1:39 PM UTC