The Role and Relevance of Religions in Responding to the Secularization of Sri Lanka

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.