Decolonizing Psychology through Gītā-Based Indian Psychology

Abstract

Mainstream Psychology has long faced critique for its Western-centric biases and its limited incorporation of non-Western perspectives. This paper argues that the Bhagavad Gītā, a seminal Indian text, provides culturally grounded paradigms that can meaningfully decolonize and enrich the global discourse of Psychology. By integrating literature on decolonization, Indian Psychology (IP), and Gītā-based constructs, we propose an indigenous framework of well-being centered on dharma (ethical duty), the guṇas (qualities of nature), anāsakti (non-attachment), and bhakti (devotion). These concepts offer alternatives to individualistic and materialistic notions of self, flourishing, and therapy. We critically examine mainstream psychological assumptions regarding personhood and healing, illustrating how Gītā teachings reframe well-being as an ethical, relational, and spiritual. Empirical findings and conceptual mappings illustrate the significance of Gītā-based Psychology in culturally responsive therapy, personality theory, and education. We conclude that adopting Gītā-informed frameworks represents a crucial step toward a globally inclusive, ethically rich, and spiritually integrative Psychology.