Is Christianity Truly Indian, Not Foreign, According to Archbishop Thazhath?
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Synopsis
Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath asserts that Christianity has been an integral part of India for over 2,000 years, challenging the misconception that it is a foreign religion. He warns of potential protests due to increasing discrimination against Christians in Kerala, emphasizing the need for constitutional rights and representation.
Key Takeaways
- Christianity's historical roots in India span over 2,000 years.
- Increased discrimination against Christians in Kerala is raising concerns.
- The Archbishop warns of potential protests if rights are not upheld.
- The Church is preparing for a stronger political stance.
- There is a call for immediate implementation of minority rights protections.
Thrissur, Nov 6 (NationPress) “In North India, the Christian Church is being misrepresented as foreign. However, Christianity has been rooted in India for more than 2,000 years, making it fundamentally Indian rather than alien,” stated Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, the leader of the Thrissur Archdiocese of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, on Thursday.
St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Lord Jesus, arrived in Kerala around 52 CE, establishing the first churches and positioning India among the earliest nations to embrace Christianity. He traveled throughout the subcontinent, reaching what is now Chennai, where he was martyred in 72 AD at St. Thomas Mount. The community he formed is one of the oldest Christian groups globally, possessing a unique history and identity.
Archbishop Thazhath cautioned that ongoing neglect of Christian rights could prompt new mass protests in Kerala, highlighting that the Christian community is increasingly facing discrimination and marginalization, especially in education and public representation.
“Christians should not be marginalized by being denied their rights and representation as minorities. If this situation persists, we will be forced to adopt a stronger political stance in the forthcoming elections,” he warned.
He suggested that the Church might need to engage in a ‘second liberation struggle,’ recalling its historical fight against injustice in Kerala.
“The Church has always actively opposed discrimination. We urge the government not to push us into another such struggle,” he cautioned.
He mentioned that these issues would be thoroughly addressed at the upcoming Community Awareness Conference organized by the Church.
“If we are ignored, we too will respond accordingly, and this will reflect in local body and Assembly elections,” he noted, clarifying that the Church has not yet declared a political position.
Expressing concern regarding hostility and attacks against Christians across India under anti-conversion laws, the Archbishop revealed that he had personally met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to share these concerns.
“The Christian community is under threat, and the Constitution must be upheld,” he emphasized.
Archbishop Thazhath also highlighted the challenges faced by Christian-run educational institutions in Kerala.
He questioned why a Christian has not been appointed as chairperson of the Kerala State Minority Commission and urged for the immediate implementation of the Justice J.B. Koshy Commission Report.
He criticized the State Education Department for delays in teacher appointments, accusing the government of bias against minority institutions.
“Favoring certain religions while discriminating against others goes against the essence of the Constitution,” he reiterated, assuring that the Church will steadfastly defend minority rights.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the Archbishop's perspective on the historical roots of Christianity in India. The narrative of Christianity as a foreign religion undermines the rich heritage and contributions of Indian Christians, a community that has coexisted within the diverse fabric of Indian society for centuries. Balancing rights and representation in a multicultural nation is essential for maintaining social harmony.
NationPress
06/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of Christianity in India?
Christianity has been present in India for over 2,000 years, with its roots tracing back to the arrival of St. Thomas in Kerala around 52 CE, establishing one of the oldest Christian communities in the world.
What are the current issues faced by Christians in Kerala?
Christians in Kerala are facing increasing discrimination, particularly in areas such as education and public representation, leading to concerns about their rights and potential protests.
What did Archbishop Thazhath say about potential political actions?
The Archbishop warned that if the Christian community continues to be sidelined, they may be compelled to take a stronger political stance in upcoming elections.
How does the Church plan to address these issues?
The Church has planned a Community Awareness Conference to discuss these pressing issues in detail and to mobilize the community for better representation.
What was the Archbishop's message regarding the Constitution?
The Archbishop emphasized that the Christian community is under threat and that the Constitution must be upheld to protect their rights and freedoms.
