Mumbai: In an era where public discourse on religious conversion often polarises along legal and political lines, the Institute of Indian Culture (IIC), Mumbai, on Sunday, offered a refreshing academic intervention on Friday evening with a thought-provoking lecture titled “Anti-Conversion: A Sociological Perspective.” Held at Stephen Fuchs Hall on August 8, 2026, the event drew a packed audience of scholars, clergy, students, and community members, underscoring both the urgency of the topic and the Institute’s success in fostering spaces for nuanced dialogue.
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Fr. Dr. Joseph M. T., SVD, a faculty member in the Department of Sociology at the University of Mumbai. Drawing upon his expertise in sociology, he examined the historical evolution of anti-conversion laws in India and analysed their impact on society. He explained that religious conversion is not merely a legal or theological matter but is deeply intertwined with questions of identity, caste, culture, power, and individual freedom.
Through a sociological framework, Prof. Joseph highlighted the complex relationship between religion and social change, encouraging participants to understand the issue in its broader social context. He reflected on how anti-conversion laws influence inter-community relations, public discourse, and the exercise of constitutional rights. Stressing the importance of objective inquiry, he urged the audience to move beyond stereotypes and engage with the lived realities of different communities. He underscored the need for dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic society while remaining committed to democratic values and constitutional principles.
Academic Initiative Beyond Legal Debates
Organised by the IIC—an academic and cultural institution run by the India Mumbai Province of the Society of the Divine Word (SVD)—the lecture was conceived as a scholarly initiative to facilitate a balanced understanding of anti-conversion laws through the lens of sociology. The programme encouraged participants to engage with the subject beyond the familiar terrain of constitutional provisions and political rhetoric, inviting instead a deeper examination of how religion, identity, caste, culture, and power intersect in the lived realities of Indian communities.
Overwhelming Response and Diverse Participation
The hall was filled to capacity with a diverse cross-section of society: academicians and researchers from Mumbai’s universities, religious leaders including priests and religious sisters, social workers, students, and members of the wider community. The attentive audience remained deeply engaged throughout the session, and the lively interaction that followed the lecture testified to the keen interest generated by the subject. Such enthusiastic participation reflected not only the relevance of anti-conversion laws in contemporary India but also the Institute’s ability to create a meaningful platform for intellectual exchange.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome by Fr. Dr. John Singarayar, SVD, Director of the Institute of Indian Culture, who greeted the distinguished speaker and all those present. In his inaugural address, he emphasised the Institute’s commitment to promoting academic engagement and constructive dialogue on issues that shape Indian society. He highlighted the importance of creating spaces where complex social questions can be examined objectively and appreciated the enthusiastic response of the participants.
Interactive Session: Questions on Law, Ethics, and Society
An engaging interactive session followed the lecture, during which participants raised thoughtful questions on the legal, social, and ethical dimensions of anti-conversion laws. The speaker responded with clarity, depth, and scholarly insight, enriching the discussion with practical examples and sociological perspectives. The exchange of ideas made the session intellectually stimulating and provided participants with a deeper appreciation of the complexities surrounding religious conversion in contemporary India.
The event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr. Ivan, SVD, who expressed sincere gratitude to Prof. Dr. Fr. Joseph M. T., SVD for his enlightening presentation; Dr. Fr. John Singarayar, SVD, for his visionary leadership; Fr. Dr. Scaria, SVD for effectively moderating the session; Bro. Swaminathan, SVD for his dedicated logistical arrangements; and all the participants for their enthusiastic presence and active involvement. The programme ended on a note of appreciation and gratitude, leaving the audience with a richer understanding of the sociological dimensions of anti-conversion laws and reaffirming the Institute of Indian Culture’s commitment to fostering scholarship, dialogue, and social harmony.