Cārvāka

Cārvāka, also known as Lokāyata, was an ancient Indian philosophical system that emphasized empirical observation and rational inquiry. It rejected supernatural beliefs and focused on materialism, valuing direct experience and sensory evidence as the basis for understanding reality. Cārvāka advocated for one’s immediate pleasures and well-being, encouraging a practical approach to life without reliance on religious or spiritual doctrines. It is considered one of the earliest materialist philosophies in India, highlighting skepticism, individualism, and a focus on the tangible aspects of existence.