Human belief in the existence of unknown and unseen power or force is religion. Etymologically religion is a belief in super natural power. It consists of a series of performance and practices which binds as well as links human beings with super natural power. The concept of religion is complex one. Some of its elements are :- (I) Belief is supernatural power (2) Belief in the holy or sacred; (3) Systems of rituals; (4) Sinful acts; (5) Mode of worship; (6) Liturgy and ideology and (7) Place of worship.
Religion plays a significant role both for individual and Society. It has both positive and negative functions. As far as positive functions are concerned religion provides mental peace to the individuals, it inculcates social virtues, it promotes social solidarity, it humanized the animal in man, it is an agent of socialization, its promotes welfare, it gives recreation, it influences economy, it influences the political system and strengthens self confidences. Along with the positive functions the negative functions or dysfunctions of religion are: It hinders social progress and impedes social changes, it promotes evil practices, it is a source of exploitation, it encourages communalism, it makes people fatalistic, it sometimes leads to violence and it creates a special group like saints, fakirs, sages, beggars etc.