Abstract:
In the context of post-modern secular societies, the role and relevance of
religious traditions face increasing investigations. Sri Lanka, a nation steeped
in rich religious diversity, comprising Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and
Christianity, the major religions of the world offers a compelling case study on
the interplay between faith and secularization. While secularism shapes public
policy and societal norms, this paper explores how religious traditions in Sri
Lanka adapt and respond to these changes, maintaining their enduring
relevance in an evolving socio-political and cultural landscape. The study
examines secularization as a gradual process in Sri Lanka, influenced by post-
modernism, globalization, Diaspora, and NGO dynamics. Secular values such
as individualism, consumerism, and liberal democracy, transmitted through
global media, diasporic remittances, and NGOs, increasingly challenge
traditional religious frameworks. Yet, religion remains a vital force,
addressing societal issues like poverty, inequality, and governance, and
offering ethical guidance amidst modern complexities. Key incidents, such as
the Kannakai Temple’s Chariot Festival and the use of JCB machinery to
enforce caste restrictions, underscore the complexities of secular interventions
within religious practices. Similarly, examples like Amman as a ‘social
auditor’ illustrate how faith traditions continue to inspire accountability and
moral clarity, even in secularized settings. The paper argues that secularism in
Sri Lanka does not signify the rejection of religion but reflects a shift from
institutional authority to personal belief. It highlights the evolving balance
between the sacred and the secular, where religious values coexist with
modern governance. By engaging creatively with societal challenges and
reinterpreting their roles, religious traditions in Sri Lanka can remain vibrant,
relevant, and transformative. Ultimately, the study calls for faith communities
to embrace this balance, ensuring that religion continues to shape the nation's
ethical and cultural foundations in the secular age.
