Watch | Caste discrimination in Christianity
| Video credit: S. Shiva Raj
Religious conversions to Christianity were often motivated by the promise of equality. Caste discrimination rooted in Hinduism has pushed historically oppressed Dalits to be baptized in churches. In this episode we will see how the voice against Caste discrimination in Christianity increases in Tamil Nadu.
Recently, with the release of writer Nivedita Louis’ book, Christhuvathil Jathi (Caste in Christianity), Thol. Thirumavalavan, the Chidambaram MP who heads the Dalit political group Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi spoke how Christianity in India has been flexible and has been largely influenced by the caste system prevalent here. He argued that the roots of casteism have nourished Christianity in India and it does not have the roots of Christian values as such.
This recognition of deep penetration of caste-based discrimination in Christianity is not new in Tamil Nadu. Several literary works have explored this sensitive subject.
Apart from the literary world, this demand for equal treatment of Dalits within the church establishment has also found resonance on other platforms. Basically, Hindu converts to Christianity had refused to shed their caste identity. Today we find Christian Nadars, Mudaliars, Yadavas and Reddiars. This predominance of dominant castes and Dalits within the church establishment has led to tensions.
Presentation: D. Suresh Kumar
Video: S. Shiva Raj
Director: Shibu Narayan
