Hinduism and Christianity: Exploring the Theological Basis for Dialogue between Christianity and Hinduism in Indian accordance with the mind of Vatican II, with particular reference to the Theological method and Christology of Henri De Lubac

The ‘Other’ has always been a matter of concern from the beginning of humanity and Christians are not an exception to this. This is true at the personal, social and political level. How we treated the ‘Other’ in the history of religions gives us pause. Religious wars and the aggressive imposition of a particular religion should ensure that we find a different path, one that promotes mutual respect and understanding. The Catholic Church has had to re-evaluate her attitude to other religions.The Second Vatican Council promoted a major shift in the relationship towards other faiths. Religious pluralism is part of the fabric of Indian society and culture. As an Indian National, while being neither complacent about our present situation nor in denial of conflicts in our history involving religion, it can be said that we have managed religious diversity somewhat better than have other parts of the world.It would be helpful if this study of efforts in India to further inter-religious dialogue and collaboration with Hinduism could contribute something to efforts in this area by Christians world-wide in their dealings with people of other Faiths.This study emerges from personal, pastoral experience as a member of the Syro-Malabar Church, with its pronounced Indian cultural identity and its expression through its liturgy. Besides the presence of the Syro-Malabar Church other Christian traditions, both Eastern and Western, including Latin-Anglican-Orthodox traditions are prevalent in India. This study is about seeking a model for positive encounter with Hinduism.Hopefully benefits might accrue to the Indian Church as a whole from such an encounter, in respect of its ongoing need for inculturation, so that Christ can be ‘at home’ in Indian culture