Kerala is known for its religious harmony and peaceful coexistence of different religions. The state has a diverse religious population, including Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and Buddhists.
Hinduism is the major religion in Kerala, with the majority of the population following it. The state has several famous Hindu temples, including Sabarimala, Guruvayur, and Padmanabhaswamy Temple, which attract thousands of devotees every year.
Kerala also has a significant Muslim population, particularly in the northern parts of the state. The Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur is believed to be the first mosque in India and was built in the 7th century by Arab traders.
Christianity was introduced to Kerala by St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, who is believed to have visited the region in the 1st century. Today, Kerala has a large Christian population, with several churches and pilgrimage sites, including the St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, which is the oldest European church in India.
Buddhism also has a small presence in Kerala, with the International Buddhist Center in Thrissur being a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims.
Despite the differences in religion, the people of Kerala have a long history of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect for each other’s faiths. This can be seen in the celebrations of various religious festivals, where people of different religions come together to participate and offer prayers.
Kerala’s government also promotes religious harmony through various initiatives and schemes. For instance, the state government provides financial assistance for the renovation of religious places, irrespective of the religion they belong to.
Overall, the religious harmony in Kerala is a reflection of the state’s cultural and social fabric, where diversity is celebrated, and differences are respected. This has been a vital aspect of the state’s progress and development, making it a model for communal harmony in India
