The Surprisingly Early History of Christianity in India
A Uniquely Indian Blend of Faith and Culture
A Vibrant and Diverse Christian Community
India is home to a vibrant and diverse Christian community, with an estimated population of over 29 million. Christianity has a long and rich history in India, dating back to the arrival of the Apostle Thomas in the first century AD. Over the centuries, Christianity has adapted to local cultures and traditions, resulting in a unique blend of Indian and Christian practices.
A Hub of Christian Education
The Christian church in India runs thousands of educational institutions, from primary schools to universities. These institutions have played a significant role in the strengthening of Christian culture in India and have produced many notable leaders in various fields.
Regional Concentrations
The Christian population in India is concentrated in three main regions: South India, the Konkan Coast, and among tribal people in East Central and North-East India.
South India is home to the largest concentration of Christians in India, with over 60% of the country's Christian population residing in the states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh.
The Konkan Coast, which includes the states of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, has a significant Christian population influenced by Portuguese colonialism.
In East Central and North-East India, Christianity has taken root among tribal communities, particularly in the states of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and North-East India.
The Apostle Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, is believed to have visited India in AD 52 and established Christian communities in Kerala. These communities, known as Syrian Christians, have preserved their unique traditions and liturgical practices over the centuries.
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