Atheism in India has a long and complex history, intertwined with the country’s rich cultural, philosophical, and religious diversity. Here are some key facts about atheism in India:

1. Historical Roots
Ancient Atheistic Philosophies: India has a tradition of atheistic and non-theistic thought, dating back to ancient times. The Charvaka school of philosophy (6th century BCE) is one of the earliest known systems that rejected the existence of gods and an afterlife. Charvaka philosophy was materialistic and skeptical of religious authority.

2. Buddhism and Jainism: Both Buddhism and Jainism, which emerged in India, have elements of atheism. While not explicitly atheistic, these religions do not emphasize the worship of gods. Jainism rejects the idea of a creator god, and while Buddhism is agnostic regarding gods, it focuses more on human suffering and enlightenment.

3. Atheist Leaders and Thinkers : Periyar E.V. Ramasamy: A prominent Indian social activist and politician, Periyar was a leading figure in promoting rationalism and atheism, particularly in Tamil Nadu. He founded the Self-Respect Movement, which encouraged a rejection of superstition, caste discrimination, and religious orthodoxy.
Bhagat Singh: The revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh wrote an essay titled “Why I am an Atheist,” which is often cited by Indian atheists for its rational and secular arguments.
Narendra Dabholkar: A noted rationalist and anti-superstition activist, Dabholkar founded the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti (Anti-Superstition Organization) and was assassinated in 2013 due to his efforts to curb superstition and promote scientific thinking.

4. Current Social Context : Growing Atheism: While India remains a predominantly religious country, there is a small but growing number of people who identify as atheists, agnostics, or non-religious. Urbanization, education, and the rise of digital media have contributed to more people questioning traditional religious beliefs.

Challenges: Atheists in India may face societal pressures, especially in rural areas where religious practices and identities are tightly woven into community life. In some cases, atheists may experience ostracization from their families or communities.

5. Atheist Organizations : There are several organizations in India that promote rationalism, atheism, and scientific temper, such as the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA), Indian Atheists, and Akhil Bharatiya Andhashraddha Nirmoolan Samiti.