CHRISTIANITY IN INDIA: A HISTORICAL AND THEOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF ITS DEVELOPMENT AND INFLUENCE

Apstrakt

Christianity, as one of the world’s major religions, has played a crucial role in shaping India’s religious and cultural landscape. At the heart of Christian faith is the person of Jesus Christ, true God and true man, whose incarnation is intrinsically linked to His Paschal Mystery: His suffering, death, and resurrection for the salvationof humanity (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 461). The Church, as the Bride of the Lamb (Revelation 21:9), continues Christ’s mission, bringing His message of redemption to the world.The presence of Christianity in India dates back to the 1st century AD and is traditionally attributed to St. Thomas the Apostle, who is regarded as a leading founder of Indian Christianity. His missionary journey to the Malabar Coast led to the establishment of the earliest Christian communities, which maintained a unique identity within the broader religious and cultural fabric of India. Over the centuries, Christianity in India has evolved through encounters with local traditions, colonial influences, and indigenous adaptations. The faith has faced challenges but has also contributed significantly to education, social reforms, and interreligious dialogue.This article examines the historical development of Christianity in India, theological perspectives, and its socio-cultural impact. Using historical and theological analysis, it explores the evolution of Christianity in India from its apostolic origins to contemporary times, considering its interactions with Indian society, culture, and politics. Furthermore, this study highlights the role of the Church in inculturation and mission, ensuring that the Gospel continues to be a transformative force in Indian society.