Multiculturalism and Religious Syncretism in Kerala through Trade : A Historical Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62656/Keywords:
Multiculturalism, Religious syncretism, Cultural assimilation, PluralismAbstract
This study evaluates the impact of trade and the advent of diverse religious traditions, especially heterodox religions and Semitic faiths like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, on cultural diversity and religious syncretism of Kerala. It examines how these religions intersected with indigenous beliefs, resulting in novel hybrid forms of practice and cultural identities. Trade, colonialism, modern education, the role of social reformers, and social mobility are all examined in relation to multiculturalism and religious syncretism in Kerala. The study concludes by examining the possible reasons for multiculturalism and religious syncretism in Kerala.
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