– Dr. S.P. Mishra is Director of the Hyderabad-based India Career Centre

This essay is not intended to demean or hurt religious sentiments. It’s exploration of an idea — through questioning, reflection, and seeking answers about the intersection of religion and economic development in India. It is inspired by a thought-provoking YouTube video of 2014, which reflected on China’s progress until that time.

Since then, China has transformed into a manufacturing powerhouse and latterly into a global leader in infrastructure development and innovation. It has engineered the world’s fastest Maglev train, reaching speeds of 650 km/h, and built the largest high-speed rail network globally. China now leads in electric vehicle production, with BYD surpassing Tesla in global sales. Its AI ecosystem has surged, with models like DeepSeek rivalling Western counterparts at a fraction of the cost. Through its Belt and Road Initiative, China has invested over $1.3 trillion in building infrastructure in over 150 countries, reshaping global trade routes. It has also launched lunar and Mars missions, built a space station, and become a top player in quantum computing and 5G deployment. With sustained GDP growth averaging 6 percent annually and strategic investment in clean energy, semiconductors, and biotech, China’s rise is the outcome of a focused national agenda that prioritises productivity, innovation, and global influence over ritualistic public life — the outcome of its relentless focus on technology and economic advancement.

India and China began their post-colonial journeys at similar economic levels in the mid-20th century. But in the late 1970s, China surged ahead with sweeping reforms and a productivity-driven ethos. India, meanwhile, initiated its economy liberalisation and deregulation process in 1991. Yet, at a systemic level, there’s stark difference: the role of religion in public life. While China’s largely atheistic population channels its energy into productivity and industrial growth, India’s societal rhythm is deeply intertwined with ritualistic religious practices. This divergence is a significant factor in the contrasting trajectories of these two Asian giants.

India is a land of profound spirituality. From the chants at dawn to the vibrant processions that colour our streets, religion is not just a belief system — it shapes our calendars, conversations, and incrementally, politics. But as India sets its sights on joining the ranks of developed economies, a philosophical question emerges: Could religious rituals be slowing the country’s economic resurgence?

Across the country, endless hours are spent every year on religious rituals. Pilgrimages, temple, mosque, church visits, and festivals are deeply meaningful. But they also represent significant investment of time, organisational effort, and money.

Religious tourism alone generates income of Rs.4.74 lakh crore annually, and temples over 2 percent of India’s GDP. Yet, studies suggest that if India embraced greater secularisation, we could double per capita GDP over the next few decades.

Countrywide millions of hours are invested every year in religious rituals  and festivals. But they also represent significant investment of time, organisational effort and money

The structure of our festive calendar adds another layer to this conversation. Indian professionals often expend 25-30 days annually on religious holidays depending on region and employer. These holidays, while culturally rich, fragment productivity — especially in sectors that rely on continuous operations. In contrast, China, with its centralised and secular holiday calendar, limits statutory holidays to just 13 days. By consolidating breaks into longer blocks, China minimises disruption and maintains economic momentum.

Religion also plays a visible role in India’s public life and politics. Temple inaugurations, religious processions, and faith-based narratives are increasingly shaping the national discourse. While this generates cultural pride, it also diverts attention from pressing economic reforms and creates social polarisation that affects governance and investor confidence.

Yet, religion is not inherently inimical to development. It can be a force for good — encouraging ethical behaviour, community support, and volunteerism. Temples, mosques, and churches often provide social welfare services, education, and healthcare to the underprivileged. The challenge is not religion per se, but how it is institutionalised and how much space it occupies in our public life.

Imagine an India where religion is cherished and practised privately, without interfering with public life. Where holidays are rationalised to balance cultural celebration with economic continuity. Where religious institutions offer vocational training, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship programs. Where public policy is guided by scientific temper, inclusive secularism, and strategic investment.

India’s spiritual richness is unmatched. But to catch up with China and break into the league of developed economies, we need to streamline public religiosity, optimise festive calendars, and invest time and energy in productive pursuits. Religion should remain a personal compass, not a public spectacle.

If embraced collectively, this philosophical shift could significantly unlock India’s latent potential and propel us towards a future where religious faith and progress walk hand in hand.