1. Introduction
India is a multi-religious nation. According to 2001 Census, Hinduism is the dominant faith, with a population of around 82%. Muslims comprise 13%, Christians form 2.3%, Sikhism 1.9% and other religions 0.8%. There is a long-standing historical presence of Christianity in India, and it has held a special place in the hearts of Indians for centuries. But is Christianity allowed in India? This article will explore the current state of Christianity in India, as well as its history and its impact on Indian society.
2. The History Of Christianity In India
Christianity is said to have been brought to India by Saint Thomas, who is believed to have arrived in Kerala in 52AD. Despite the popularity of Christianity among Indians, the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonial rule saw a period of religious suppression in India. During this period, Christianity was forced upon Indian people, leading to an increase in conversions.
However, this period saw a resurgence in Indian’s faith in Christianity and it again grew in popularity, especially in the south of India. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the British colonial rule saw further Christianisation in India and in 1947, India became a secular nation.
3. Is Christianity Allowed In India?
The answer to this question is in the affirmative. Christianity is a protected religion in India – Indian people are free to practice their faith unhindered. India has a strong framework of laws that protect all religions equally, and provide equal opportunities to all. As per the Indian Constitution, Article 25(1) grants equality, “all persons are equally entitled to freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practise and propagate religion.”
However, in spite of the protection Christians enjoy, there have been instances of religious intolerance in India. In recent times, there have been reports of attacks on churches and Christians, as well as allegations of conversion.
4. The Impact Of Christianity In India
The presence of Christianity in India has had an immense impact on Indian society. It has served to unify India’s diverse traditions and contributed in various ways to Indian culture – from social welfare to education.
Christianity is strongly embedded in Indian culture, with Christianity-based practices and beliefs being absorbed into traditional Indian culture. For instance, the two most popular saints in India, Sai Baba and DaraShikoh, are both rooted firmly in Christianity. Christianity also has a vital role to play in the preservation of traditional Indian values and beliefs.
5. Christianity and Social Welfare
Christian mission centers in India play a critical role in providing much-needed social welfare and health to the less privileged. There are innumerable NGOs that are mostly run by Christian clergy and people who are dedicated to helping the poor. Most of these NGOs are involved in education, healthcare, housing, job training and other social welfare activities.
These centers have a positive impact on India’s economy. They provide employment and income to unskilled and skilled workers, help improve education and health outcomes and encourage social inclusion and development.
6. Christianity and Education
Christian schools have also had a substantial impact on education in India. These schools provide quality education to the population at large and have a deep-rooted understanding of the Indian culture and language. Furthermore, some of these schools are well known for their commitment to gender equality and equal rights for all.
Christianity has also inspired various initiatives in the fields of social service, literacy and spiritual education. A number of Christian mission schools serve to teach not just academic subjects but also important life-skills, vocational training, moral and spiritual values.
7. Christianity and Art
Christianity has also had an immense impact on India’s art and architecture. From churches and monuments to paintings and sculptures, there is a wide array of art forms in India that have been heavily influenced by Christianity.
Moreover, a number of musical forms, such as choirs, are deeply associated with Christianity. These musical forms have become intrinsic parts of Indian culture and traditions and are widely reverenced and appreciated.
8. Christianity and Indian Attitudes
Christianity has a long and ancient history in India and for centuries it has been a unique part of Indian culture and tradition. Today, it is an intrinsic part of everyday life, forming part of the fabric of Indian society in countless ways.
Being a multi-religious nation, Indians are well acquainted with other religions and cultures. Indians are neither afraid nor judgemental of Christianity, and generally have a positive outlook towards it.
9. Christianity and Religion
Despite the presence of Christianity in India, Hinduism remains the dominant faith. The majority of Indian people follow the Hindu religion and this forms part of the very fabric of India. However, Christianity has become an accepted and respected religion in India, influencing and integrating into the cultural, spiritual, and economic life of the nation in many ways.
In recent years, there has been an increase in interfaith dialogue, where people from different backgrounds and beliefs come together to foster harmony, understanding and mutual respect.
9. Christianity and Politics
The political landscape in India is also heavily influenced by Christianity. From religious leaders to politicians and activists, Christians have been actively involved in the political process, bringing their own unique perspectives and experiences to the table. In fact, many Christian politicians are now influential voices in Indian politics, as well as representatives of their constituents.
10. Conclusion
India is a multi-religious nation and Christianity is a respected and accepted faith in India. Indian people are generally not afraid of Christianity and there is a long-standing presence of Christians in India. Christianity has had an immense impact on Indian society, from its contributions to social welfare and education, to its presence in art and culture. Furthermore, Christians have also been actively involved in Indian politics, giving voice to their own beliefs and experiences.
