Many confuse Indian Philosophy to be the same as Hindu Philosophy. However, it is not so. Let us try to unravel the difference below.
Indian philosophy is a vast and diverse field encompassing various philosophical schools and is not limited to Hindu philosophy alone. Indian Philosophy would have been synonymous with Hindu Philosophy only if the word ‘Hindu’ were taken in the geographical sense of ‘Indian.’ However, the word ‘Hindu’ is often taken in the sense of a follower of a particular religious faith. Therefore, it is a mistake to say Indian Philosophy and Hindu Philosophy are the same.
Indian Philosophy denotes the philosophical work of all the Indian thinkers, Hindus, or non-Hindus, orthodox or unorthodox and even theists or atheists. One of the distinguishing features of Indian philosophy is its inclusivity and openness to multiple viewpoints. Hindu philosophy is only one thread in the larger fabric of the philosophical discourse of Indian Philosophy.
Indian philosophy encompasses unorthodox schools of thought such as Buddhists, and the Jainas. It also includes atheist as well as materialist philosophies like Cārvāka. Each of these traditions offers a distinct perspective on fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality.
In conclusion, Indian philosophy transcends singular labels like ‘Hindu philosophy.’ It represents a dynamic and enduring intellectual tradition and has a synthetic approach to fundamental questions that continue to inspire scholars and seekers worldwide.
Reference
Dutta & Chatterjee: An Introduction to Indian Philosophy, University of Calcutta, 1968