On the question of
Indian Exceptionalism

The question

Does Indian exceptionalism exist? And if so, what does it actually mean?

We are not seeking agreement. We are seeking positions.

Who should contribute

We welcome contributions from scholars, researchers, practitioners, writers, and independent thinkers across disciplines, including but not limited to:

• History and civilizational studies
• Philosophy and religious thought
• Political theory and governance
• Economics and institutional analysis
• Sociology and anthropology
• Linguistics and cultural studies
• Science, technology, and modernity

Formal academic affiliation is not required. Intellectual seriousness is.

What kind of articles we are looking for

Each article should do at least three of the following:

• Clearly state what the author believes Indian exceptionalism is, or argue why the concept itself is flawed or unnecessary
• Engage honestly with at least one strong opposing view
• Use history, theory, or lived experience with care and restraint
• Address costs, failures, or trade-offs, not only strengths
• Resist romanticism, polemic, and ideological certainty

Contradiction between articles is expected and encouraged.

Methodological expectations

This project is guided by two intellectual commitments:

What this project is not

• A platform for nationalism or civilizational triumphalism
• An attempt to manufacture consensus
• Advocacy for any political party or ideology
• A debate stage for provocation without rigour

Essays that rely on slogans, caricatures, or historical flattening will not be published.

Format and length

• Length: 1,500–3,000 words
• Tone: Analytical, reflective, and accessible to a general educated audience
• Citations: Encouraged where relevant (formal academic style not required)
• Originality: Submissions must be original and unpublished

Longer or unconventional formats may be considered if justified.

Editorial approach

• Essays are selected for clarity of thought, not agreement
• Light editorial review for structure and clarity
• Substantive disagreements with the project's framing are welcome
• The editorial team may publish short notes highlighting points of tension between essays
• Publication implies participation in an ongoing inquiry, not endorsement of a final position

How to submit

Please email:

• A brief abstract (200–300 words)
• A short author bio (2–3 lines)
• Your full essay (or draft, if complete)

to: achyut@IndiaExceptionalism.org

Rolling submissions are open.

India is both a civilization and a republic. Understanding it requires patience, intellectual humility, and the willingness to remain uncertain longer than usual.

If your essay sharpens the question rather than settles it, it belongs here.