One of the most recent events that had directly or indirectly involved most of the Indians had been the nuclear deal.Lot of arguments and debates were held on this subject.The Leftist party has walked out of the support which they were giving to Dr.Manmohan Singh government.Some of the BJP Representatives voted against their party in the Trust vote.
What this nuclear treaty?It is a No Clear Treaty for most of the Indians.
India is perceived to be a Highly Developed nation in the near Future.Another country would be China.Both this countries would require lot of energy in the form of Electricity in Future.China owns their own indigenous Technology to run their Nuclear reactors and it is considered to be inferior reactors as compared to the reactors in the Western Countries.India wants more energy to be produced and the conventional ways are that of Hydel and Coal.Hydel energy is purely dependent on the annual rainfall which can have a lot of shortfall.Coal reserves are only available for few more years later than that India would have to import coal and prices can be very high.Beside Thermal plant pollutes nature thus causing a lot of environment concerns.
Thus the only option left for future would be Nuclear energy thus Indian Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh has created another Reform which would have a very Positive impact in the years to come.Dr.Singh brought in the economic reforms to India and there was no looking back from 1991.
What could Indian gain through this Nuclear deal?
a) 30 Nuclear reactors are proposed once the deal goes thru.It would give direct employment to 100000 people and indirect employment to 500000 people.
b) Uninterrupted power supply for all the Industries and Residential houses in the Indian Towns and Villages.
c) Traditionally Indians borrow technology.Slowly they Indigenous the parts and later they start manufacturing and exporting worldwide.In case of Software Industries Indians started as Data entry operators and now they are exporting software.Similarly in another 12 years India would be a Leader in Nuclear Reactors and Internationally Indians would be fixing Nuclear Reactors.That is indeed a Revolution and thus make India the most Developed nation.
The Communist party in India is always well Known for being anti reformist.When computerisation was introduced they were the one who went against it and almost paralysed this country.They have not allowed the UPA government to bring in many reforms.Indians are really happy to see them walk out of the coalition.At least during the little time that is left the Government could pass most of the held up reforms in the Parliament as the elections will be held next year.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Malayalees outside Kerala.
Traditional joke goes that when Mr.Edmund Hillary conquered Himalayas for first time,on top of the Himalayan peak he was offered a glass of hot 'Chai' by a Malayalee.I have often wondered how malayalees migrate to such an extend outside the Kerala state.Once as a part of job I had to travel to a place called Korba which is in Bastar a predominantly tribal place.So I had to take a bus from Bilaspur get down at some point and then another bus would take me to Korba coalmines.Now I was waiting in front of a teashop and went to ask the owner of the shop about timing of bus.All on a sudden I heard a Malayalam film song in the background.No doubt it was a malayalee tea shop.He guided me how to go about and how to come back etc;It is found that thare are 10,000 Malayalees in Pakistan!
How easily a Malayalee get adapted to any circumstance and any locality has always surprised me.He learns the Language very fast.If you wait for a bus at Diera bus stop in Dubai you will know the language skill of Malayalees.There are many fancy shops near the Bus Depot and International tourist keep on pouring in.So the salesman would speak in Russian language on seeing a Russian group, immediately he will switch on to Arabic,sinhalese,French,English and some African Language depending on the crowd which arrives.
In India itself they speak pure Hindi if in Hindi belt,Gujarati if in Gujarat,Telugu in Andhra Pradesh and Kannada if in Karnataka.They work very hard ,but only if they are outside kerala.For them 55 degree Celsius Temperature would'nt affect in spite of constructing some building.Most of the buildings in the Arabian Gulf is a standing example of hard labour of Malayalees.
Still in Kerala they wouldn't like to work.Probably Kerala is a Resort for a Malayalee and he do not want to Industrialise it!!
How easily a Malayalee get adapted to any circumstance and any locality has always surprised me.He learns the Language very fast.If you wait for a bus at Diera bus stop in Dubai you will know the language skill of Malayalees.There are many fancy shops near the Bus Depot and International tourist keep on pouring in.So the salesman would speak in Russian language on seeing a Russian group, immediately he will switch on to Arabic,sinhalese,French,English and some African Language depending on the crowd which arrives.
In India itself they speak pure Hindi if in Hindi belt,Gujarati if in Gujarat,Telugu in Andhra Pradesh and Kannada if in Karnataka.They work very hard ,but only if they are outside kerala.For them 55 degree Celsius Temperature would'nt affect in spite of constructing some building.Most of the buildings in the Arabian Gulf is a standing example of hard labour of Malayalees.
Still in Kerala they wouldn't like to work.Probably Kerala is a Resort for a Malayalee and he do not want to Industrialise it!!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Return Journey
Now the vacation is over.Time to pack up and once again back to Madhya Pradesh.So the Journey starts from Thiruvalla.Along with the Journey the eating marathon starts.To start with 'Paripu vada' is the first thing available between Thiruvalla and Kottayam.It is very hot and spicy.From Kottayam to Ernakulum it is 'Medu Vada'.In between Coffee is taken.At Ernakulum we get down to get our next train to Madras.Fish curry Meals at the Ernakulum junction is quiet tempting.Of Kerala's most famous fish sardine is served.Then we get into a train bound for Madras.After a good nights sleep we reach Madras.Immediately we run to get hold of another train bound for Nagpur.Now it is two days journey.Now the food is Vegetarian and made in groundnut oil.Dressing of people also changes.Tamil ladies prefer white Jasmine flowers to decorate their hair along with lot of glass bangles and of course the nose ring which surprisingly even the Kerala Hindu ladies never use to put.One thing that always surprised me was why a Tamil lady always apply lot of Turmeric all over their body?No answer.
One of the major attraction about entering Andhra pradesh is to eat lot of fruits which the vendors keep on coming at between two stations.Once on entering orrisa we get lot of Hot milk to drink.Finally after breakfast on train we reach Nagpur.After one hour we get our train for Madhya pradesh and we reach our place in two hours.
In Madhya pradesh the only mode of transportation was Cycle riksha.So We take a cycle riksha and reach our rented home.
One of the major attraction about entering Andhra pradesh is to eat lot of fruits which the vendors keep on coming at between two stations.Once on entering orrisa we get lot of Hot milk to drink.Finally after breakfast on train we reach Nagpur.After one hour we get our train for Madhya pradesh and we reach our place in two hours.
In Madhya pradesh the only mode of transportation was Cycle riksha.So We take a cycle riksha and reach our rented home.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Kerala Christians
Christian community in Kerala is not a homogenous entity. However most Kerala Christian groups follow certain common practices derived from local cultural influences such as wedding customs, and use of Malayalam language in liturgy. Most groups also believe in the St. Thomas tradition.
The origin of Kerala's Christians dates back to 52 AD, when St. Thomas came to the region landing in the port of Cranganore near Cochin. He visited different parts of Kerala and converted local inhabitants including many from the upper sect known as Namboodiri Brahmins. It is also believedthat St. Thomas established Churches in seven places in Kerala ( Kodungallore, Palayur, Paravur, Kokkamangalam, Niranam, Chayal, Korakkeni, Kollam) and a chappal (half church-"Arappalli") at Thiruvankottu.
The present Christian population have descended from these early groups.Some of the early Christians were Paklomattam, Shankarapuri, Kalli, and Kaaliyankavu in the north and Thayyil, Pattamukkil, Manki, and Madathilen near Niranam . They are popularly referred to as Syrian Christians because of the Syrian Liturgy which they continued to use in church services. They have also sometimes been called Nazaranis (followers of Jesus of Nazarene) or St. Thomas Christians. In some official documents Syrian Christians are even now referred to as Nazaranis.
An added fillip to the growth of the Church took place when a group of about 400 people migrated from Syria in 345 AD and joined the then existing Kerala Church. The leader of this group was Thomas of Kana. They stayed on in the region. The descendants of this group even today maintain their separate identity,and are known as Kananites. Syrian Christians remained as an independent group, and they got their bishops from Eastern Orthodox Church in Antioch in Syria.
The Portuguese who arrived by sea in 1498, gradually established their power base and were eager to bring all Christians in the fold of the Church of Rome. With their superior organizational skill and with the help of Portuguese political power Bishop Alexis De Menzes succeeded in establishing the Roman Catholic Church as the dominant Church of Kerala.Between 1500 to 1650 the Portuguese made an effort to convert local inhabitants to the Roman Catholic faith and also bring some of the existing members of the Syrian Christian Church under Roman Catholic influence. The climax of this was what is known as "Synod of Udayamperur" . The Portuguese power declined by the 17th century. That weakened the influence of the Roman Catholic Church in Kerala.
In 1653 there was a re-affirmation of allegiance to the Syrian Orthodox tradition in front of an improvised cross at Mattanchery. This event is popularly known as' Coonan Kurisu Satyam' (Oath taken on a bent cross). The immediate provocation was the alleged murder by Portuguese authorities, of a Bishop who was sent from Syria After the decline of the Portuguese the next major influence sprung from British rule. There was a significant influence in the area of education through the efforts of the Christian missionaries which account for the high literacy rate and high degree of education among Keralites.
The subsequent history of the Syrian Christian Church of Kerala includes the evolution of the Syrian groups and the Roman catholic groups. First let us look at the Syrian groups.
Around 1800 one of the Syrian Christian Bishops, Mathew Athanasius, influenced by one Abraham Malppan made a move to the Protestant side and this was the beginning of the Kerala Mar Thoma Church. They developed strong links to the Western missionaries and emphasized evangelical renewal and Bible study. But the majority of the parent Syrian Church remained loyal to their own Bishops.
On September 14, 1912 a visiting patriarch from Mardin elevated one of the local bishops in the Syrian Church to Catholicos, a position that existed before in Tigris. This event took place at the famous Niranom Church and subsequently led to disputes and litigation between the factions called Orthodox Syrians and Jacobite Syrians of the Syrian Church in Kerala.Several Catholicos followed.
Their names are testament to the Churche's eastern connection. The first Catholicos was Basaliose Poulose the I (September 14, 1912 to May 2, 1913) The second was Basliose Geeverghese I. (April 30, 1925 to December 17, 1928).
During the time of the third Catholicos (Basaliose Geeverghese3, ( Feb 15, 1929 to January 3, 1964) the positions of 'Malankara Metran' (Head Bishop) and Catholicos were combined. The fourth Catholicos was Basaliose Ougen I (May 12, 1964 to December 8, 1975) and the fifth Basaliose Thomas Mathews I (October 27, 1975 to April 27, 1991).When Mathews Basaliose I retired sixth Catholicos Thomas Mathews II took office on April 29, 1991.
Catholics together constitute about 61.4%, the Syrian Orthodox and Syrian Jacobites together about 21.4%, the Marthoma Syrians about 5.7%, the Church of South India 5.2% and others about 6.3% of Christian in the state.The Syrian orthodox , Syrian Jacobites and Marthoma Syrians are sometimes referred to as Syrian Christians today. All affore mentioned groups together constitute Kerala's Christian population
During the 1930s one of the leading Bishops of the Syrian Christians, disillusioned by the split between the Catholicos group and the Patriarch group left the Church and moved to the Roman Catholic Church, forming a group called "Reethu". (Malankara Roman Rite) Nearly a hundred thousand people went over to this new rite from the Syrian Orthodox Church.
The two groups of the Syrian Church, namely the Jacobite Syrians and the Orthodox Syrians continued court battles and finally in 1960 the Supreme Court of India ruled putting an end to the litigation. But even after this temporary reunion the division emerged again. Today there are again two divisions, the Orthodox Syrian Christians owing allegiance to the Catholicos of the East and the Jacobites Syrian Christians owing allegiance to the Patriarch of Antioch in Syria. Very recently the supreme court of India has once again ruled putting an end to legal struggles between those two groups and recognizing the legitimacy of the Catholicos.
Now let us turn to the Roman Catholics The Roman Catholic Church accepted allegiance to Pope and came to be known as Syrian Roman Catholic. There are Roman Catholics converted by European missionaries known as Latin Roman Catholics. There is also Roman Catholic group mentioned earlier called "Reethu" or the Malankara Syrian Rite.The Roman Catholic Church went through it's own evolutionary struggles after the Portuguese power declined in India. In 1662 the Dutch took over Cochin from the Portuguese. The Portuguese before departing elevated a local priest to bishop and papal representative. He ruled the church from 1662 to 1687.
There was a period of dominance by Carmalite missionaries during the Dutch period. However there was an ongoing struggle for local autonomy in the church. In 1887 the process of liberalization started. Two new diocese, Kottayam and Trichur started with local autonomy. Three Kerala priests were appointed as bishops In 1896 for the first time. New diocese in Palai, Kothamangalam, Tallicheri and Manathavadi were started.In 1956 the status of Changanacheri diocese was upgraded.In 1969 the metropolitan of Eranakulam was elevated to Cardinal. For the Catholic Church of Kerala the most momentous occasion was the visit of Pope John Paul II. The Pope visited Kottayam and performed the beatification of a Kerala priest and nun.
Eventhough the Kerala Catholics follow the religious practices of Roman Catolics world over, they have much in common with other Kerala christians.They follow Syrian rites as opposed to Latin rites. As stated earlier Roman Catholics along with other christian groups use malayalam language for service and follow certain local customs and traditions during weddings funerals etc. A Kerala catholic, while accepting papal authority and mainstream Roman Catholic practices might be inclined to feel more at home with other Kerala christian groups socially and culturally.
The CSI Church in Kerala had its beginnings mostly from Anglican missionaries who had converted the local population. However later on they united with the Basil Mission, Presbyterians and Baptists and formed the group called Church of South India. As in the case of catholics these various groups follow largely the relegious practices of their parent groups world over.However lingustically,socially and culturally they have much in common with other Kerala christian groups.
In addition to the aforementioned major groups the early St. Thomas Christians have now spread out to about 30 groups in Kerala. Among them are such groups as the Chaleddeans and the Pentecostals. At the time of Mar Thoma 6th a visiting bishop named Mar .Gregorios elevated a priest from the Kattumangattu family to bishophood. This group came to be known as Thoziur' church.
The Pentecost followers lead a simple life and prefer to treat sickness through prayers. Their origin was in Tennassie state in 1887. Pastor Cook started the Kerala Pentecostal church in Mulakkuza near Chenganoor in 1925. There are several sub groups like Pentikostu Deiva sabha, Indian Pentikostu sabha, Pentikostu Deiva Samuham, Celyon Pentokostu, Apostolia united pentikostu, independent pentekostu, Adhakrutha pentikostu, Penticostu Gospel group and Philadelphia Penticostu.
Travancore-Cochin Anglican church is a break away faction from CSI going back to 1966.Brotherans, a break away faction from the Baptists have their headquarters in Kumbanadu near Thiruvalla.
Salvation Army originated in London England in 1878. William Booth was the founder.Salvation army came to the state in 1878. They centered their activities in southern Travancore.
Yuyomayam was started by an anglican priest Yusthoose Youseph. He was also known as 'Vidwan Kutty' and was the son of a Brahmin from Thirunalveli.He forcasted that Christ will come for second time in 1980. Another prediction was that darkness will encircle the earth on August 10, 11, and 12, 1875.
DeivaSabha was started by a methodist priest from the U.S.A in 1884. A Kerala branch was established in 1910.
Russel church , otherwise called 'Jehovaha's witnesses was started by C.T.Russel in U.S.A. The Kerala branch was established in Mallappalli in 1925.
Lutheran mission run by followers of reformist Martin Luther established themselves in Perurkkada near Trivandrum in 1911.They operate in some 70 centers in sothern Travancore.
The miracle crusaders are fast gaining ground in the state. In a small town Potta near Trichur, Father Naickam Parambil is attracting thousands of devotees.
While the Church in the West is still Evangelical, in India the focus of the main line Church is social. There is also a strong ecumenical movement. Today Kerala Christians are a prosperous community commanding extraordinary Political clout. The religious practices of this group were shaped in the place of origin and is dominated by Church services which follow traditional patterns. Their basic belief is in the Christian doctrine and life after death. The clergy laity relationships are very strong. Syrian Christians have strong and active religious organizations and a majority of the people attend Sunday Church services. Church services are conducted in Malayalam with some segments often in Syriac. Baptism is practised by all Kerala Christians. The Episcopal Churches emphasise child baptism and use sprinkling of water in the name of the Triune of God. Believer's baptism by immersion in water is practised by Pentecostal groups. The Lord's Supper is celebrated by various groups and the Aramaic word Qurbana which means "offering" is used for the practice. The Greek word "Eucharist" which means thanksgiving is also used and is an expression of one's renewal of faith and participation in the death and suffering of Jesus Christ.
The Eucharist liturgy of the Syrian and Mar Thoma Churches stem from Eastern traditions and is based on the liturgy of St. James. The liturgy of the Roman Catholics is western. The liturgy of the Church of South India combines elements from both these. Pentecostal Churches do not follow a definite liturgy. The mainline Churches also practices Kayyasturi (in Malayalam) an oriental custom meaning kiss of peace, which enhances the celebration of the Lord's Supper. It is done by a form of eastern handshake. The Pentecostal's also practice this, but in their case the brothers kiss brothers and sisters kiss sisters. The manner of celebration of the Lord's Supper varies from denomination to denomination. Syrian Christians use several accessories such as the bells, the veil, the altar, the cross the coverings and the candles.
Many Hindu traditions and customs are followed by Kerala Churches. Among Hindus and Kerala Christians consanguineous marriages are permitted only if the partners are separated at least four generations. Both the Hindu women and the Nazarani women at the time of marriage have an amulet tied around their neck by the bridegroom. It is called "Thali" by Hindu and "Minnu" by Kerala Christians. There are many other Hindu traditions followed by Christians such as dowry system, decorations with rice flower, and forty one day observances after a death in the family.
Syrian Christians celebrate all Christian religious days. The more orthodox people maintain Lent for twenty four days prior to Christmas and fifty days prior to Easter. Those who do so, eat only vegetarian meals and refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages during Lent. Easter week is very important. There are special Church services on Palm Sunday and also every evening including Good Friday on Pesaha (Maundy Thursday) There is a special Church service with Holy Communion. Good Friday is of great significance and Church services start at nine o'clock in the morning and continue on to three o'clock in the afternoon. On Easter Sunday Church service starts at four o'clock in the morning and concludes with Holy Communion. Easter breakfast and family get together is traditional.
Only recently westerners have begun to recognize Christianity's Eastern foundation. Christianity in Kerala is older than Rome according to the St.Thomas tradition. It began as an Oriental religion. Syrian Christian priests wear cassocks, caps and beards as seen also in west Asia. The Syrian Christians have a special identity. Their customs and manners are different from those of other Christian groups. Their names are unique, Thomas is Mammen, Peter is Ommen, Paul is Peeli, Elizabeth is Eliamma and so on. Some Syrian Christians still believe in astrology and horoscopes. Arranged marriages are common. As mentioned previously during the marriage ceremony exchange of rings is less important than the tali which the bridegroom ties around the bride's neck.
Junior priests are allowed to marry and eat meat. But only those who remain unmarried can rise to the rank of bishops. Many Syrian Christian practices are distinctively eastern and early western missionaries found them primitive and ignorant in their point of view.
The origin of Kerala's Christians dates back to 52 AD, when St. Thomas came to the region landing in the port of Cranganore near Cochin. He visited different parts of Kerala and converted local inhabitants including many from the upper sect known as Namboodiri Brahmins. It is also believedthat St. Thomas established Churches in seven places in Kerala ( Kodungallore, Palayur, Paravur, Kokkamangalam, Niranam, Chayal, Korakkeni, Kollam) and a chappal (half church-"Arappalli") at Thiruvankottu.
The present Christian population have descended from these early groups.Some of the early Christians were Paklomattam, Shankarapuri, Kalli, and Kaaliyankavu in the north and Thayyil, Pattamukkil, Manki, and Madathilen near Niranam . They are popularly referred to as Syrian Christians because of the Syrian Liturgy which they continued to use in church services. They have also sometimes been called Nazaranis (followers of Jesus of Nazarene) or St. Thomas Christians. In some official documents Syrian Christians are even now referred to as Nazaranis.
An added fillip to the growth of the Church took place when a group of about 400 people migrated from Syria in 345 AD and joined the then existing Kerala Church. The leader of this group was Thomas of Kana. They stayed on in the region. The descendants of this group even today maintain their separate identity,and are known as Kananites. Syrian Christians remained as an independent group, and they got their bishops from Eastern Orthodox Church in Antioch in Syria.
The Portuguese who arrived by sea in 1498, gradually established their power base and were eager to bring all Christians in the fold of the Church of Rome. With their superior organizational skill and with the help of Portuguese political power Bishop Alexis De Menzes succeeded in establishing the Roman Catholic Church as the dominant Church of Kerala.Between 1500 to 1650 the Portuguese made an effort to convert local inhabitants to the Roman Catholic faith and also bring some of the existing members of the Syrian Christian Church under Roman Catholic influence. The climax of this was what is known as "Synod of Udayamperur" . The Portuguese power declined by the 17th century. That weakened the influence of the Roman Catholic Church in Kerala.
In 1653 there was a re-affirmation of allegiance to the Syrian Orthodox tradition in front of an improvised cross at Mattanchery. This event is popularly known as' Coonan Kurisu Satyam' (Oath taken on a bent cross). The immediate provocation was the alleged murder by Portuguese authorities, of a Bishop who was sent from Syria After the decline of the Portuguese the next major influence sprung from British rule. There was a significant influence in the area of education through the efforts of the Christian missionaries which account for the high literacy rate and high degree of education among Keralites.
The subsequent history of the Syrian Christian Church of Kerala includes the evolution of the Syrian groups and the Roman catholic groups. First let us look at the Syrian groups.
Around 1800 one of the Syrian Christian Bishops, Mathew Athanasius, influenced by one Abraham Malppan made a move to the Protestant side and this was the beginning of the Kerala Mar Thoma Church. They developed strong links to the Western missionaries and emphasized evangelical renewal and Bible study. But the majority of the parent Syrian Church remained loyal to their own Bishops.
On September 14, 1912 a visiting patriarch from Mardin elevated one of the local bishops in the Syrian Church to Catholicos, a position that existed before in Tigris. This event took place at the famous Niranom Church and subsequently led to disputes and litigation between the factions called Orthodox Syrians and Jacobite Syrians of the Syrian Church in Kerala.Several Catholicos followed.
Their names are testament to the Churche's eastern connection. The first Catholicos was Basaliose Poulose the I (September 14, 1912 to May 2, 1913) The second was Basliose Geeverghese I. (April 30, 1925 to December 17, 1928).
During the time of the third Catholicos (Basaliose Geeverghese3, ( Feb 15, 1929 to January 3, 1964) the positions of 'Malankara Metran' (Head Bishop) and Catholicos were combined. The fourth Catholicos was Basaliose Ougen I (May 12, 1964 to December 8, 1975) and the fifth Basaliose Thomas Mathews I (October 27, 1975 to April 27, 1991).When Mathews Basaliose I retired sixth Catholicos Thomas Mathews II took office on April 29, 1991.
Catholics together constitute about 61.4%, the Syrian Orthodox and Syrian Jacobites together about 21.4%, the Marthoma Syrians about 5.7%, the Church of South India 5.2% and others about 6.3% of Christian in the state.The Syrian orthodox , Syrian Jacobites and Marthoma Syrians are sometimes referred to as Syrian Christians today. All affore mentioned groups together constitute Kerala's Christian population
During the 1930s one of the leading Bishops of the Syrian Christians, disillusioned by the split between the Catholicos group and the Patriarch group left the Church and moved to the Roman Catholic Church, forming a group called "Reethu". (Malankara Roman Rite) Nearly a hundred thousand people went over to this new rite from the Syrian Orthodox Church.
The two groups of the Syrian Church, namely the Jacobite Syrians and the Orthodox Syrians continued court battles and finally in 1960 the Supreme Court of India ruled putting an end to the litigation. But even after this temporary reunion the division emerged again. Today there are again two divisions, the Orthodox Syrian Christians owing allegiance to the Catholicos of the East and the Jacobites Syrian Christians owing allegiance to the Patriarch of Antioch in Syria. Very recently the supreme court of India has once again ruled putting an end to legal struggles between those two groups and recognizing the legitimacy of the Catholicos.
Now let us turn to the Roman Catholics The Roman Catholic Church accepted allegiance to Pope and came to be known as Syrian Roman Catholic. There are Roman Catholics converted by European missionaries known as Latin Roman Catholics. There is also Roman Catholic group mentioned earlier called "Reethu" or the Malankara Syrian Rite.The Roman Catholic Church went through it's own evolutionary struggles after the Portuguese power declined in India. In 1662 the Dutch took over Cochin from the Portuguese. The Portuguese before departing elevated a local priest to bishop and papal representative. He ruled the church from 1662 to 1687.
There was a period of dominance by Carmalite missionaries during the Dutch period. However there was an ongoing struggle for local autonomy in the church. In 1887 the process of liberalization started. Two new diocese, Kottayam and Trichur started with local autonomy. Three Kerala priests were appointed as bishops In 1896 for the first time. New diocese in Palai, Kothamangalam, Tallicheri and Manathavadi were started.In 1956 the status of Changanacheri diocese was upgraded.In 1969 the metropolitan of Eranakulam was elevated to Cardinal. For the Catholic Church of Kerala the most momentous occasion was the visit of Pope John Paul II. The Pope visited Kottayam and performed the beatification of a Kerala priest and nun.
Eventhough the Kerala Catholics follow the religious practices of Roman Catolics world over, they have much in common with other Kerala christians.They follow Syrian rites as opposed to Latin rites. As stated earlier Roman Catholics along with other christian groups use malayalam language for service and follow certain local customs and traditions during weddings funerals etc. A Kerala catholic, while accepting papal authority and mainstream Roman Catholic practices might be inclined to feel more at home with other Kerala christian groups socially and culturally.
The CSI Church in Kerala had its beginnings mostly from Anglican missionaries who had converted the local population. However later on they united with the Basil Mission, Presbyterians and Baptists and formed the group called Church of South India. As in the case of catholics these various groups follow largely the relegious practices of their parent groups world over.However lingustically,socially and culturally they have much in common with other Kerala christian groups.
In addition to the aforementioned major groups the early St. Thomas Christians have now spread out to about 30 groups in Kerala. Among them are such groups as the Chaleddeans and the Pentecostals. At the time of Mar Thoma 6th a visiting bishop named Mar .Gregorios elevated a priest from the Kattumangattu family to bishophood. This group came to be known as Thoziur' church.
The Pentecost followers lead a simple life and prefer to treat sickness through prayers. Their origin was in Tennassie state in 1887. Pastor Cook started the Kerala Pentecostal church in Mulakkuza near Chenganoor in 1925. There are several sub groups like Pentikostu Deiva sabha, Indian Pentikostu sabha, Pentikostu Deiva Samuham, Celyon Pentokostu, Apostolia united pentikostu, independent pentekostu, Adhakrutha pentikostu, Penticostu Gospel group and Philadelphia Penticostu.
Travancore-Cochin Anglican church is a break away faction from CSI going back to 1966.Brotherans, a break away faction from the Baptists have their headquarters in Kumbanadu near Thiruvalla.
Salvation Army originated in London England in 1878. William Booth was the founder.Salvation army came to the state in 1878. They centered their activities in southern Travancore.
Yuyomayam was started by an anglican priest Yusthoose Youseph. He was also known as 'Vidwan Kutty' and was the son of a Brahmin from Thirunalveli.He forcasted that Christ will come for second time in 1980. Another prediction was that darkness will encircle the earth on August 10, 11, and 12, 1875.
DeivaSabha was started by a methodist priest from the U.S.A in 1884. A Kerala branch was established in 1910.
Russel church , otherwise called 'Jehovaha's witnesses was started by C.T.Russel in U.S.A. The Kerala branch was established in Mallappalli in 1925.
Lutheran mission run by followers of reformist Martin Luther established themselves in Perurkkada near Trivandrum in 1911.They operate in some 70 centers in sothern Travancore.
The miracle crusaders are fast gaining ground in the state. In a small town Potta near Trichur, Father Naickam Parambil is attracting thousands of devotees.
While the Church in the West is still Evangelical, in India the focus of the main line Church is social. There is also a strong ecumenical movement. Today Kerala Christians are a prosperous community commanding extraordinary Political clout. The religious practices of this group were shaped in the place of origin and is dominated by Church services which follow traditional patterns. Their basic belief is in the Christian doctrine and life after death. The clergy laity relationships are very strong. Syrian Christians have strong and active religious organizations and a majority of the people attend Sunday Church services. Church services are conducted in Malayalam with some segments often in Syriac. Baptism is practised by all Kerala Christians. The Episcopal Churches emphasise child baptism and use sprinkling of water in the name of the Triune of God. Believer's baptism by immersion in water is practised by Pentecostal groups. The Lord's Supper is celebrated by various groups and the Aramaic word Qurbana which means "offering" is used for the practice. The Greek word "Eucharist" which means thanksgiving is also used and is an expression of one's renewal of faith and participation in the death and suffering of Jesus Christ.
The Eucharist liturgy of the Syrian and Mar Thoma Churches stem from Eastern traditions and is based on the liturgy of St. James. The liturgy of the Roman Catholics is western. The liturgy of the Church of South India combines elements from both these. Pentecostal Churches do not follow a definite liturgy. The mainline Churches also practices Kayyasturi (in Malayalam) an oriental custom meaning kiss of peace, which enhances the celebration of the Lord's Supper. It is done by a form of eastern handshake. The Pentecostal's also practice this, but in their case the brothers kiss brothers and sisters kiss sisters. The manner of celebration of the Lord's Supper varies from denomination to denomination. Syrian Christians use several accessories such as the bells, the veil, the altar, the cross the coverings and the candles.
Many Hindu traditions and customs are followed by Kerala Churches. Among Hindus and Kerala Christians consanguineous marriages are permitted only if the partners are separated at least four generations. Both the Hindu women and the Nazarani women at the time of marriage have an amulet tied around their neck by the bridegroom. It is called "Thali" by Hindu and "Minnu" by Kerala Christians. There are many other Hindu traditions followed by Christians such as dowry system, decorations with rice flower, and forty one day observances after a death in the family.
Syrian Christians celebrate all Christian religious days. The more orthodox people maintain Lent for twenty four days prior to Christmas and fifty days prior to Easter. Those who do so, eat only vegetarian meals and refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages during Lent. Easter week is very important. There are special Church services on Palm Sunday and also every evening including Good Friday on Pesaha (Maundy Thursday) There is a special Church service with Holy Communion. Good Friday is of great significance and Church services start at nine o'clock in the morning and continue on to three o'clock in the afternoon. On Easter Sunday Church service starts at four o'clock in the morning and concludes with Holy Communion. Easter breakfast and family get together is traditional.
Only recently westerners have begun to recognize Christianity's Eastern foundation. Christianity in Kerala is older than Rome according to the St.Thomas tradition. It began as an Oriental religion. Syrian Christian priests wear cassocks, caps and beards as seen also in west Asia. The Syrian Christians have a special identity. Their customs and manners are different from those of other Christian groups. Their names are unique, Thomas is Mammen, Peter is Ommen, Paul is Peeli, Elizabeth is Eliamma and so on. Some Syrian Christians still believe in astrology and horoscopes. Arranged marriages are common. As mentioned previously during the marriage ceremony exchange of rings is less important than the tali which the bridegroom ties around the bride's neck.
Junior priests are allowed to marry and eat meat. But only those who remain unmarried can rise to the rank of bishops. Many Syrian Christian practices are distinctively eastern and early western missionaries found them primitive and ignorant in their point of view.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Kerala Dressing
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmQ0LvK5qnc
One of the most beautiful aspects of a Keralite is their traditional dressing.Christian men wear White Dhoti and white shirt with a cover called 'Neyriyathu'.Christian ladies in those days used to wear white Blouse called 'Chatta' and white 'Mundu'.The 'Mundu is worn in a traditional manner with a fan like fold at the back.'Chata'is covered with off white 'Kavini' and a 'Broach'is fixed on the top Left hand side.The value of 'Broach' almost determine the social status of the christian lady.Ornaments worn by Christian ladies are essentially of 22 carat gold.If rich even the 'Broach'is of gold.Ear rings used to be as big as bangles but much thicker and definitely made of Gold.
Girls after puberty in those days use to wear 'Half sari'.It is a long skirt with blouse and a small sari like cloth but not fully sari.It showed full beauty of a teen aged girl.However now it had been replaced by north Indian chudidhar.One of the advantages of chudidar is a girl can be very Fat but if covered under Chudidar no one will probably know how fat the girl is.However 'Half sari' still seems to be very sexy for me.
Probably keralites used to wear such dresses because of the climate.Hot Humid Climate followed by unpredictable rain might have made people dress in white and off white colors.Another aspect was every keralite always carried an umbrella either to protect from Sun or from rain.Either of them are for sure.
One of the most beautiful aspects of a Keralite is their traditional dressing.Christian men wear White Dhoti and white shirt with a cover called 'Neyriyathu'.Christian ladies in those days used to wear white Blouse called 'Chatta' and white 'Mundu'.The 'Mundu is worn in a traditional manner with a fan like fold at the back.'Chata'is covered with off white 'Kavini' and a 'Broach'is fixed on the top Left hand side.The value of 'Broach' almost determine the social status of the christian lady.Ornaments worn by Christian ladies are essentially of 22 carat gold.If rich even the 'Broach'is of gold.Ear rings used to be as big as bangles but much thicker and definitely made of Gold.
Girls after puberty in those days use to wear 'Half sari'.It is a long skirt with blouse and a small sari like cloth but not fully sari.It showed full beauty of a teen aged girl.However now it had been replaced by north Indian chudidhar.One of the advantages of chudidar is a girl can be very Fat but if covered under Chudidar no one will probably know how fat the girl is.However 'Half sari' still seems to be very sexy for me.
Probably keralites used to wear such dresses because of the climate.Hot Humid Climate followed by unpredictable rain might have made people dress in white and off white colors.Another aspect was every keralite always carried an umbrella either to protect from Sun or from rain.Either of them are for sure.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Wedding Ceremony
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ns0C_rBTY6o
Traditionally Kerala Syrian Christian marriage ceremony take place in 3 parts.Though engagement was done usually there is no ring ceremony.It is only a meeting of both the families.
So first part of the wedding ceremony would be engagement and known as the ring ceremony.Here the ring is put on both bride and grooms hand.
Next is the Crowning ceremony where in the Priest blesses the groom thrice with a crown and the bride thrice with the crown.Finally the Knot tying ceremony followed by wrapping the bride with 'Mantrkodi'.Tying of Knot is with seven threads and it has a 'Minu'on those threads.Now the seven threads are taken from the 'Mantrkodi'.The bride wrapped in a 'Mantrakodi'Looks the most beautiful girl on earth probably a divine beauty comes in.
After marriage the girl goes and changes to the Mantrakodi which is worn by her.Hereafter traditionally she is supposed to wear this 'Mantrkodi'for any future function eg;Baptism of her first child etc;'Mantrakodi'is kept thruout her lifetime.
After the marriage ceremony comes the Feast.In the olden days usually Feast is arranged at the Grooms home or Brides home depending on where the marriage took place.So a tent is made and is decorated Tables and chairs are kept in line.Once people sit in Plantain leaf is kept in front of everyone followed by a glass of water.Appam and Chicken Stew is given as Starter.On the entry lemon juice is served and the rule is that whoever has come from the other side should first enter ie;if Feast is at Grooms place then preference would be for brides relatives and grooms relative can come in only in the second round.
First item would be salt followed by Plantain.Next Fish,Meat,Vegetable etc;is served followed by rice.Next rice is served with butter milk and finally rice,sugar and Yogurt is served which was the dessert those days.
Finally at the exit one lemon is given to all those attended the function.
Now the boy and girl starts to live together blessed by almighty.
Traditionally Kerala Syrian Christian marriage ceremony take place in 3 parts.Though engagement was done usually there is no ring ceremony.It is only a meeting of both the families.
So first part of the wedding ceremony would be engagement and known as the ring ceremony.Here the ring is put on both bride and grooms hand.
Next is the Crowning ceremony where in the Priest blesses the groom thrice with a crown and the bride thrice with the crown.Finally the Knot tying ceremony followed by wrapping the bride with 'Mantrkodi'.Tying of Knot is with seven threads and it has a 'Minu'on those threads.Now the seven threads are taken from the 'Mantrkodi'.The bride wrapped in a 'Mantrakodi'Looks the most beautiful girl on earth probably a divine beauty comes in.
After marriage the girl goes and changes to the Mantrakodi which is worn by her.Hereafter traditionally she is supposed to wear this 'Mantrkodi'for any future function eg;Baptism of her first child etc;'Mantrakodi'is kept thruout her lifetime.
After the marriage ceremony comes the Feast.In the olden days usually Feast is arranged at the Grooms home or Brides home depending on where the marriage took place.So a tent is made and is decorated Tables and chairs are kept in line.Once people sit in Plantain leaf is kept in front of everyone followed by a glass of water.Appam and Chicken Stew is given as Starter.On the entry lemon juice is served and the rule is that whoever has come from the other side should first enter ie;if Feast is at Grooms place then preference would be for brides relatives and grooms relative can come in only in the second round.
First item would be salt followed by Plantain.Next Fish,Meat,Vegetable etc;is served followed by rice.Next rice is served with butter milk and finally rice,sugar and Yogurt is served which was the dessert those days.
Finally at the exit one lemon is given to all those attended the function.
Now the boy and girl starts to live together blessed by almighty.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Wedding season and arranged marriage.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01ebB7K5rTg
Traditionally in Kerala the Syrian Christians marry during certain period of the year.During 50 days of lent it is forbidden to marry though in some cases now a days allow it to happen but the food will be strictly Vegetarian which means only very few people will attend.Also 25 days before Christmas usually the marriages don't take place.Another time is 8 days before birthday of St.Mary ie.First week of September.Also from June to August second week the marriages are avoided as it is heavy monsoon season,but that is optional.So marriage amongst Syrian Christians take place from last week of December to February or March depending on the Lent date.Immediately after Easter till June.Then August second week to November end.However the period after Easter seems to be hectic marriage period as more relatives come from different parts of world due to summer vacation of their kids.
In the olden days marriage was almost a get together ceremony of all the relatives.It was a rule to compulsorily invite 10 of your neighbours who are your parish members.Besides all the relatives from fathers side and mothers side is invited.Usually the marriage proposal is brought in by the 'Broker'.He will have a list of girls and Boys willing to get married.So he would come and give a Bio data of Boy/Girl and also will show the photo.As a salesman he would tell lot of 'Good Qualities' about the girl,their family etc;Finally he will come to the most interesting part that is the share of the girl.His brokerage is usually 10% of the share amount from both sides.So that part is of great interest to him too.
I clarified to grandfather about this dowry part.Why should a girl pay when she is getting married to my uncle?Well, he told me with the logic of our forefathers on the share part.Amongst Syrian Christians we treat a boy at par with a girl.So I have 5 Children,3 Boys and 2 girls.I have 5 acres of Land.if I divide this 5 acres each acre will go to each child.But Syrian Christians being a patriarchal society we give the value of 1 acre land to my eldest daughter when she is married and value of another acre of land to my second daughter when she is married.Then 5 acre will be divided within my 3 sons and the house goes to the youngest as he is supposed to look after me.So that answered my question on Share part.
So all our relatives come to our house and help in preparation of different dishes as Catering companies were unheard of on those days.
The broker goes to girls parents and inform that such and such boy is interested.The parents would do primary enquiry about the nature,Qualification etc;of the boy and later come and request for the boy.Now,if accepted,boys parents will go and do the enquiry about girl.Once both the parties are satisfied an engagement is arranged and that is where the said share of the girl is given.Usually Engagement takes place at girls place and no.of people attending the count is taken because on the day of marriage the boys side would expect only 10 times the people who attended engagement besides as many people from boys side.
Traditionally in Kerala the Syrian Christians marry during certain period of the year.During 50 days of lent it is forbidden to marry though in some cases now a days allow it to happen but the food will be strictly Vegetarian which means only very few people will attend.Also 25 days before Christmas usually the marriages don't take place.Another time is 8 days before birthday of St.Mary ie.First week of September.Also from June to August second week the marriages are avoided as it is heavy monsoon season,but that is optional.So marriage amongst Syrian Christians take place from last week of December to February or March depending on the Lent date.Immediately after Easter till June.Then August second week to November end.However the period after Easter seems to be hectic marriage period as more relatives come from different parts of world due to summer vacation of their kids.
In the olden days marriage was almost a get together ceremony of all the relatives.It was a rule to compulsorily invite 10 of your neighbours who are your parish members.Besides all the relatives from fathers side and mothers side is invited.Usually the marriage proposal is brought in by the 'Broker'.He will have a list of girls and Boys willing to get married.So he would come and give a Bio data of Boy/Girl and also will show the photo.As a salesman he would tell lot of 'Good Qualities' about the girl,their family etc;Finally he will come to the most interesting part that is the share of the girl.His brokerage is usually 10% of the share amount from both sides.So that part is of great interest to him too.
I clarified to grandfather about this dowry part.Why should a girl pay when she is getting married to my uncle?Well, he told me with the logic of our forefathers on the share part.Amongst Syrian Christians we treat a boy at par with a girl.So I have 5 Children,3 Boys and 2 girls.I have 5 acres of Land.if I divide this 5 acres each acre will go to each child.But Syrian Christians being a patriarchal society we give the value of 1 acre land to my eldest daughter when she is married and value of another acre of land to my second daughter when she is married.Then 5 acre will be divided within my 3 sons and the house goes to the youngest as he is supposed to look after me.So that answered my question on Share part.
So all our relatives come to our house and help in preparation of different dishes as Catering companies were unheard of on those days.
The broker goes to girls parents and inform that such and such boy is interested.The parents would do primary enquiry about the nature,Qualification etc;of the boy and later come and request for the boy.Now,if accepted,boys parents will go and do the enquiry about girl.Once both the parties are satisfied an engagement is arranged and that is where the said share of the girl is given.Usually Engagement takes place at girls place and no.of people attending the count is taken because on the day of marriage the boys side would expect only 10 times the people who attended engagement besides as many people from boys side.
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