Impact of Karnataka Temple Economy on Social Development: A Catalyst for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the contribution of Karnataka's temple economy to social development by analysing its role in education, healthcare, heritage conservation, employment generation, rural livelihoods, charitable activities, and community welfare. Karnataka’s temple economy functions as a multidimensional socio-economic system that extends beyond religious worship to drive livelihoods, public welfare, and sustainable development. It further explores how these multifaceted contributions support the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Methodology: This qualitative explanatory study examines Karnataka’s temple economy, social development, and the SDGs using secondary data from credible academic, institutional, government, temple, news, magazine, and journal sources.

Analysis/Results: The temple economy contributes significantly to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering inclusive economic growth, generating employment, supporting education and healthcare, preserving cultural heritage, empowering local artisans, promoting sustainable tourism, encouraging environmental conservation, strengthening social cohesion, reducing inequalities through charitable initiatives, and creating resilient communities rooted in cultural, spiritual, and economic sustainability.

Originality/Value: Most studies on temples focus on their history and religion. This study provides a new avenue by combining the temple economy as a socio-economic inclusion system. It shows that temples are the engines of inclusive growth when combined with the preservation of cultures and traditions, the economy, philanthropy, and community development in an ecologically sustainable way.

Social Implications: The study argues that temple-cantered ecosystems are the best ways to maintain social cohesion, retain community knowledge, offer opportunities for local artists and micro businesses, sustain eco-tourism, and improve community access to social service provision. The authors propose that when combined with appropriate public policy, a temple economy can facilitate culturally appropriate, equitable, and sustainable development.

Type of Paper: Exploratory Research.