Caste and conversion movements in India
- New Delhi Indian Social Institute 1981
- 38p.
Nineteenth and early 20th century conversions to Christianity are viewed by some as the result of material inducements and by others as exclusively religious events. The author argues that they should be viewed as social movements of the 'Untouch- ables' to adapt themselves to the changing socio-political situa- tion or as a mode of upward social mobility. Caste has always played a role in conversion as well as maintenance of minority groups like Christianity, Islam and Sikhism though all of them preach equality. However, the dynamics of this movement differ- ed from place to place. The Konkan Coast Christians and the Coromandel Coast fishermen in the 16th century, the Sudras in the 18th century and the 'Untouchables' in the 19th and 20th centuries reacted in different ways to changing circumstances. As a result of this complexity of factors, caste cleavages remain among Christians though the 'Untouchables' were attracted by the hope of social equality. This monograph is an attempt at understanding this complextiy and is a contribution to the national debate on the situation of the Scheduled Castes.