In my paper, I investigate the evolution of the concept of dharma, a rich and multifaceted Sanskrit principle embodying moral duty and social responsibility within Indian philosophico-religious traditions. Through an analysis of the perspectives of influential figures such as Gandhi and Ambedkar, I illustrate that dharma extends beyond mere religious definitions to encompass universal ethics and legal responsibilities.
The historical applications of dharma, prominently inscribed in the ancient royal edicts of Aśoka and notably revisited in modern Indian political theories, prioritize societal harmony above individual interests. My comprehensive examination of the definitions and selected interpretations of dharma in classical Indian philosophical texts, alongside relevant commentaries (Hindu: Bhagavad Gītā, Vaiśeṣikasūtra, Nyāyasūtra, and Jain: Saman Suttam, Tattvārtha Sūtra, among others), will yield a novel classification that enhances our understanding of these intricate obligations. I aim to illuminate the enduring impact of these ancient principles on contemporary identity and governance in India.