An Explanation of Propagation Methods in New Indian Religious Movements Based on the Principles of Indian Religions

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Vice-Dean for Education and Research, Faculty of Mysticism, University of Religions and Denominations, alim@urd.ac.ir.

2 Head of the Department of Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Mysticism, University of Religions and Denominations, m.rohani@urd.ac.ir.

10.22081/jip.2026.74372.1157

Abstract

Unlike Islam and Christianity, most Indian religions did not initially possess a universalist outlook; their primary audience consisted solely of the people of the Indian subcontinent. Consequently, for centuries, they made no effort to propagate or convey their message beyond the borders of this land. Nevertheless, three major Hindu mystical schools—Vedanta, Yoga, and Bhakti—along with Buddhism and Sikhism, eventually managed to transcend the geography of the subcontinent. By capitalizing on the decline of spirituality in the post-Renaissance Western world, they updated, adapted, and compartmentalized traditional teachings to suit contemporary spiritual needs. They emphasized aspects of their traditions that appealed to Westerners seeking spiritual peace and relief from the stresses and anxieties imposed by industrial and materialistic life. From the early 20th century to the present, they have succeeded in attracting millions of followers in these regions. The primary factors contributing to the success of Indian religions in propagating their beliefs—largely manifested through New Indian Religious Movements (NIRMs)—are as follows: a) Attraction through the gradual transformation of individuals via pluralistic teachings;  b) Emphasis on appealing spiritual disciplines such as meditation and yogic physical exercises;  c) Focus on attaining mental peace in daily life without necessitating the adoption of specific traditional faith foundations of Indian religions;  d) And finally, the influence of charismatic figures who played a pivotal role in the expansion of these schools.

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