The Religious Practices of Lakshadweep Natives Before Islam Conversion

The question of the religious practices of the native inhabitants of Lakshadweep before their conversion to Islam is a topic of great interest and significance. This island chain, known as deeb in the local vernacular, is historically and culturally linked to the lands of Kerala. Understanding the religious and social practices of these ancestors provides invaluable insights into the historical narrative of the region.

Land and People

Lakshadweep, unlike the Andaman and Nicobar islands, does not have indigenous aboriginal tribes isolated from the mainland before their arrival. The islands were inhabited by a single stock of people, much like the Maldives, forming part of a broader cultural and ethnic family. The islands' history began with the arrival of the first ocean-goers who noted the land amidst the sea. The early settlers came from a mainland that was predominantly Malayalee in origin, making Lakshadweep astringent part of the southern Indian cultural fabric.

Religious Practices Before Islam

The initial settlers of Lakshadweep probably included a small service group stationed in the islands. Their worship practices were initially similar to those of the mainland Malayalees. Over time, a significant number of the population may have adopted Buddhism, influenced by the general trend in Kerala at that time. The transition to Islam, however, was a more gradual process, occurring after the arrival of Muslim traders, missionaries, and preachers.

The conversion to Islam posed unique challenges. Unlike Maldives, which saw a more rapid and widespread conversion, Lakshadweep was not a primary destination for Islamic missionaries. The new community required the establishment of mosques, the appointment of a Qazi, and the availability of necessary resources such as wood, metal, and annual rations. Additionally, permission to settle and land access from the overlord were essential. The transition to Islam in Lakshadweep was, therefore, more strategic and less spontaneous compared to other regions.

Political Context

The political dynamics of Lakshadweep were closely intertwined with those of the mainland. By the 16th century, under the rule of the Arakkal kingdom, Lakshadweep became a significant political extension of the kingdom. The conversion to Islam in Lakshadweep came in response to a political marriage. A princess of the Arakkal dynasty was required to marry a Muslim aide, and in return, the coastal provinces, including Lakshadweep, were granted to this aide, establishing a mini-kingdom.

The successive generations focused on Lakshadweep, and by the early 18th century, under the leadership of Ali Raja, the islanders were fully converted to Islam, as evidenced by royal records. This transition was not merely religious but also tied to political and social changes, highlighting the complex interplay of religion, politics, and culture in the historical narrative of Lakshadweep.

Conclusion

Despite being part of a broader historical narrative, the specifics of Lakshadweep's religious practices before and after the conversion to Islam are often overlooked. These unique details require a deep understanding of the cultural and political climate of Kerala. As with many aspects of Kerala's history, there are nuanced and layered stories that transcend simple histories.