The Consciousness Confusion in AI: Comparing Western and Indian Theories of Consciousness

Debates about consciousness in Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems are often framed as technical questions about whether artificial systems can be conscious, sentient, or self-aware. Comparing five distinct and diverse philosophical standpoints -- functional-reductionist, phenomenal, Charvaka, Samkhya, and Advaita Vedanta -- we argue that questions about AI consciousness are underspecified unless they state the theory of consciousness being assumed. Each frame changes whether AI consciousness appears possible, doubtful, or misframed. Drawing on \textit{Bharatiya Gyana Parampara}, the ancient Indian philosophical knowledge system, we argue for a philosophically pluralistic AI future that serves shared human needs while preserving diverse interpretations of consciousness, intelligence, and selfhood.