Hyderabad, Oct. 31 -- "Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Isai, aapas mein hai bhai-bhai."

This is an oft-repeated chant that generations of Indians have grown up hearing. It is also an idea that sounds increasingly utopian in a society where religion is routinely used for divisive politics.

Every October 31, India celebrates Rashtriya Ekta Diwas to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and his contribution to the unification of the country. The day is marked by all the trappings of national unity - the symbolic Run for Unity, pledges, parades and citizens gathering under the tricolour.

There is little to disagree with about the idea of running together on common ground. But a run represents only one particular idea of unity: everyo...