Understanding Vivekananda’s ‘Universal Religion’ in the Context of India’s Pluralistic Ethos

India and its people have unique diversity in name of religion, cultural practices and tradition. Its socio-cultural and religious ethos is woven with diverse typologies; they express themselves differently through many languages, castes, creeds, cuisines, costumes and importantly faith and belief. What underlines its character is a spirit of mutual interest and tolerance . The people of India over the years have celebrated each of these differences, coexisted and absorbed the best from each other. What hence, defines the Indian pluralistic and secular ethos is mutual respect and tolerance of different religions and faith. The common belief in the goodness of mankind truth, non-violence and peace amongst all beings underlines Indian values. Swami Vivekananda's views on universal religion emphasize on the equality of all religions and the amalgamation of positive values in the Indian context. The paper will examine the nature and the context in which they interact at ideological and practical levels.