From the Apostle Thomas in 52 AD to the vibrant church of today — a comprehensive historical, cultural, theological, and sociological overview of Christianity in the Indian Subcontinent.
Introduction: An Ancient Faith in South Asia
When most people think of Christianity in South Asia, they assume it arrived with European colonizers. This common misconception overlooks a remarkable truth: Christianity in India is one of the oldest forms of Christianity in the world, predating the arrival of the gospel in many parts of Europe.
According to ancient church tradition, the Apostle Thomas himself brought the gospel to India's Malabar Coast in 52 AD — just two decades after the resurrection of Christ. This means Indian Christianity is rooted not in colonialism, but in apostolic-era evangelism.
The Incredulity of Saint Thomas by Caravaggio, 1601-1602 (Source: Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
Today, Christianity in India and Pakistan is shaped by a rich tapestry of influences:
- Ancient Eastern Christian traditions — Syriac, Nestorian, and Thomasine heritage
- Medieval Catholic and Orthodox interactions — Portuguese and other European contact
- Colonial missionary movements — British Protestant missions
- Indigenous revival movements — The Sialkot Revival and local awakenings
- Persecution, resilience, and modern growth — The ongoing story of faith under pressure
This comprehensive guide explores the full story of Christianity in South Asia — from Thomas to today.
Part I: Ancient Roots of Christianity in India (52 AD Onwards)
The Apostle Thomas in India
Icon of Saint Thomas the Apostle (Source: Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
According to ancient and continuous church tradition preserved by the St. Thomas Christians of Kerala, the Apostle Thomas made an extraordinary missionary journey to India:
| Arrival | 52 AD — Thomas arrived on the Malabar Coast (modern Kerala) |
| Ministry | Preached the gospel, established 7 churches, trained local elders |
| Martyrdom | 72 AD — Martyred in Mylapore (modern Chennai) |
| Tomb | San Thome Basilica, Chennai, India |
Key Distinctives of Early Indian Christianity
The Christianity established by Thomas was distinctly Eastern, not Western. Key characteristics included:
- Syriac (Aramaic) liturgy — The worship language was closely related to the language Jesus himself spoke
- Jewish-Christian flavor — Early Indian Christianity retained many Jewish elements in worship and practice
- Connection to the Church of the East (Persia) — Indian Christians maintained ties with the Persian church for centuries
- Indigenous integration — Christianity became deeply rooted in Indian culture without foreign political control
- The Seven Churches — Thomas is credited with establishing seven original church communities in Kerala
Biblical Connection — John 20:24-29:
"Then he said to Thomas, 'Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.' Thomas said to him, 'My Lord and my God!'"
The same Thomas who demanded proof of the resurrection became the apostle who carried the gospel to the ends of the known world — fulfilling Jesus' commission in Acts 1:8.
Part II: Medieval Era Influence (4th–15th Century)
Ancient copper plate grants to St. Thomas Christians in Kerala (Source: Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
Persian (East Syriac) Influence
For over a thousand years, Indian Christianity maintained strong ties with the Church of the East based in Persia (modern-day Iran/Iraq). This connection shaped the church in important ways:
- Episcopal authority — Bishops were often sent from Persia to oversee the Indian church
- Eastern liturgical rites — Churches followed East Syriac worship practices, not Roman Catholic rites
- Theological orientation — Closer to Eastern Christianity than Western Catholicism
- Cultural integration — Christianity became genuinely Indian, not perceived as foreign
Arab Trade Era
During the centuries of Arab dominance in Indian Ocean trade (7th–15th centuries):
- Christian communities thrived along major trade routes
- Maintained relatively peaceful coexistence under early Islamic rule
- Engaged in commerce and professional occupations
- Preserved their distinct religious identity while participating in broader society
This era demonstrates that Indian Christianity was well-established and self-sustaining long before any European contact.
Part III: Colonial Era and Missionary Expansion (1500–1947)
Portuguese Arrive — 1498
St. Francis Xavier (1506-1552), Apostle to the Indies (Source: Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
When Vasco da Gama reached India in 1498, the Portuguese brought Roman Catholicism to the subcontinent. This began a new chapter in South Asian Christian history:
Catholic Missionary Orders
- Jesuits — The Society of Jesus, known for education and intellectual engagement
- Franciscans — Focused on poverty and service
- Dominicans — Emphasized preaching and theological education
St. Francis Xavier (1542)
Francis Xavier, a founding member of the Jesuits, arrived in Goa in 1542 and became one of the most influential missionaries in Asian history. He:
- Evangelized extensively in Goa and South India
- Baptized thousands of converts
- Traveled to Japan and died attempting to reach China
- Was canonized as a saint and named patron of missions
British Missionaries (18th–19th Century)
William Carey (1761-1834), "Father of Modern Missions" (Source: Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
The British colonial period brought Protestant Christianity to South Asia in a significant way. Key figures include:
| Missionary | Significance | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| William Carey | "Father of Modern Missions" | Pioneer Bible translator; completed major translations by 1818 |
| Henry Martyn | Translator and linguist | Translation work in Persian and Urdu |
| Alexander Duff | Educational reformer | Pioneered English-medium Christian education |
Major Contributions of Colonial-Era Missions
Bible Translation
Missionaries translated Scripture into major South Asian languages:
- Hindi
- Bengali
- Urdu
- Punjabi
- Tamil (1706 — one of the earliest Asian Bible translations)
- And dozens of other regional languages
Social Institutions
- Schools and colleges — Many of India and Pakistan's premier institutions
- Hospitals and medical care — Bringing modern medicine to rural areas
- Printing presses — Enabling literacy and literature distribution
- Orphanages — Caring for abandoned and destitute children
Social Reform
- Anti-sati activism — Opposing the practice of widow burning
- Women's education — Promoting literacy and learning for women
- Opposition to caste discrimination — Welcoming all people equally
- Abolition of infanticide — Fighting against killing of unwanted children
Key Scripture — Matthew 28:19-20:
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."
This Great Commission motivated thousands of missionaries to leave their homes and dedicate their lives to South Asia.
Part IV: Christianity in Modern India
Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica in Kochi, Kerala — one of India's oldest churches (Source: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA)
Population and Distribution
| Estimated Christian Population | 30–35 million (approximately 2.3% of India's population) |
| States with Strong Christian Presence | Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Goa, Andhra Pradesh |
| Majority Christian States | Nagaland (~88%), Mizoram (~87%), Meghalaya (~75%) |
Major Denominations in India
| Tradition | Description | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic | Largest Christian denomination in India | Strong institutions, schools, hospitals |
| St. Thomas Christians (Syrian Rite) | Ancient churches claiming Thomasine origin | Syro-Malabar, Syro-Malankara, and Orthodox traditions |
| Protestant (CSI, CNI) | Church of South India, Church of North India | United churches combining Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian |
| Pentecostal/Charismatic | Fastest-growing segment | Vibrant worship, healing emphasis, indigenous leadership |
| Evangelical/Independent | Various mission-founded and indigenous churches | Strong evangelistic zeal, house church movements |
Key Characteristics of Indian Christianity Today
- Vibrant worship — Local hymnody and indigenous musical styles
- Dalit Christianity — Fast-growing among Dalit (formerly "untouchable") communities seeking dignity and equality
- Persecution — Significant opposition in some regions from Hindu nationalist groups
- Missionary zeal — Indian Christians actively engaged in missions within India and globally
- Educational excellence — Christian schools remain among India's best institutions
- Social service — Extensive work among the poor, sick, and marginalized
Part V: Christianity in Modern Pakistan
Sacred Heart Cathedral in Lahore, Pakistan (Source: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA)
Population and Demographics
| Estimated Christian Population | 2.6–3 million (approximately 1.5% of Pakistan's population) |
| Primary Locations | Punjab (especially Lahore, Faisalabad), Karachi, Islamabad |
| Ethnic Background | Primarily Punjabi "Masihi" (Christian) families |
Historical Roots
Many Pakistani Christians trace their heritage to:
- Punjabi "Masihi" families — Converts from the 19th and early 20th centuries
- CMS (Church Mission Society) missions — British Anglican missionaries in the 1800s
- Missionary schools and Bible societies — Educational pathways to faith
- Mass movements among lower castes — Finding dignity and equality in Christ
The Sialkot Revival (1904–1905)
One of Asia's most significant revival movements occurred in Sialkot, Punjab (now Pakistan). Key features included:
- Intense prayer and confession of sin
- Powerful experiences of the Holy Spirit
- Reconciliation between believers
- Renewed commitment to evangelism
- Lasting impact on South Asian Christianity
The Sialkot Convention continues to this day as an annual gathering of Pakistani Christians.
Key Contributions of Pakistani Christians
Education
- Forman Christian College — One of Pakistan's premier universities (Lahore)
- Kinnaird College — Leading women's institution
- Numerous mission schools throughout the country
Healthcare
- Christian Hospital Taxila
- Christian Hospital Sahiwal
- Medical missions in rural and underserved areas
Literature and Worship
- Zaboor — The Punjabi Psalms, beloved in Pakistani Christian worship
- Geet ki Kitab — Hymnal from the Sialkot Convention tradition
- Urdu Bible translations
Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz (I.D. Shahbaz) — The Punjabi Psalmist
One of the most significant figures in Pakistani Christian history is Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz, known as the "Punjabi Psalmist."
| Name | Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz (I.D. Shahbaz) |
| Title | "The Punjabi Psalmist" |
| Major Contribution | First metrical translation of the Psalms into Punjabi |
| Significance | Created the "Zaboor" — the heart of Punjabi Christian worship |
The Zaboor remains central to Pakistani Christian identity, sung in churches, homes, and gatherings throughout the country.
Part VI: Timeline of Christianity in South Asia
| Date | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 52 AD | Apostle Thomas arrives in India | Beginning of Christianity in South Asia |
| 72 AD | Martyrdom of Thomas in Mylapore | First apostolic martyr in Asia |
| 300–800 AD | Syriac Christianity expands | Persian church connections strengthen |
| 1498 | Portuguese missionaries arrive | Roman Catholicism introduced |
| 1542 | St. Francis Xavier reaches Goa | Major Catholic missionary expansion |
| 1600–1800 | Protestant missionary influence grows | British missions begin |
| 1706 | Tamil Bible published | One of earliest Asian Bible translations |
| 1793 | William Carey arrives in India | Beginning of modern missionary movement |
| 1818 | William Carey completes major translations | Bible available in multiple Indian languages |
| 1904–1905 | Sialkot Revival | Major spiritual awakening in Punjab |
| 1947 | Partition of India and Pakistan | Christianity divided between two nations |
| 2000–Present | Pentecostal and Evangelical growth accelerates | Rapid expansion despite persecution |
Part VII: Key South Asian Christian Figures
| Figure | Period | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Apostle Thomas | 1st Century | Founder of Indian Christianity; one of the twelve apostles |
| St. Francis Xavier | 1506–1552 | Jesuit missionary; Apostle to the Indies |
| William Carey | 1761–1834 | "Father of Modern Missions"; pioneer Bible translator |
| Henry Martyn | 1781–1812 | Translated New Testament into Urdu and Persian |
| Pandita Ramabai | 1858–1922 | Christian reformer for women's rights and education |
| Sadhu Sundar Singh | 1889–1929 | Indian Christian mystic and evangelist; "Apostle with bleeding feet" |
| Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz | 19th Century | "Punjabi Psalmist"; translated Psalms into Punjabi verse |
Sadhu Sundar Singh — The Apostle with Bleeding Feet
Sadhu Sundar Singh (1889-1929) (Source: Wikimedia Commons, Public Domain)
Sundar Singh was one of the most remarkable Christian figures South Asia has ever produced. Born into a Sikh family in Punjab, he initially opposed Christianity violently. After a dramatic conversion experience, he became a wandering evangelist (sadhu) who dressed in the saffron robes of an Indian holy man while proclaiming Christ.
He traveled throughout India, Tibet, and even to Europe and America, sharing his mystical yet biblically grounded faith. He disappeared in Tibet in 1929, likely martyred for his faith.
Part VIII: South Asian Christian Literature
| Work | Language | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Zaboor | Punjabi | Metrical translation of the Psalms; central to Pakistani Christian worship |
| Geet ki Kitab | Urdu/Punjabi | Hymnal from the Sialkot Convention tradition |
| Urdu Bible | Urdu | Various translations for Pakistan and North India |
| Hindi Standard Bible | Hindi | Modern standard version for Hindi speakers |
| Tamil Bible (1706) | Tamil | One of the earliest Asian Bible translations |
| Malayalam Bible | Malayalam | Scripture for Kerala's Christian community |
Part IX: Contributions of Christianity to South Asia
Christianity's impact on South Asia extends far beyond the church walls. Christian institutions and individuals have made lasting contributions to society:
Education
- Thousands of schools and colleges across India and Pakistan
- Some of the highest literacy rates found in Christian-run institutions
- Premier universities: Forman Christian College, St. Stephen's College (Delhi), Madras Christian College
- Emphasis on education for girls and marginalized communities
Healthcare
- Christian Hospital Sahiwal (Pakistan)
- Christian Hospital Taxila (Pakistan)
- St. Stephen's Hospital (Delhi, India)
- Christian Medical College Vellore (India) — world-renowned medical institution
- Rural health initiatives and leprosy missions
Social Work
- Leprosy treatment and rehabilitation
- Orphanages and child welfare
- Support for persecuted communities
- Women's shelters and empowerment programs
- Disaster relief and humanitarian aid
Part X: Current Challenges Facing South Asian Christians
Despite their contributions, Christians in South Asia face significant challenges:
Persecution
- Pakistan: Blasphemy laws misused against Christians; mob violence; church attacks
- India: Anti-conversion laws in some states; Hindu nationalist violence in certain regions
- Social ostracism and economic discrimination
Caste Discrimination
- Many Christians come from Dalit backgrounds
- Caste prejudice sometimes persists even within churches
- Loss of affirmative action benefits upon conversion (in India)
Forced Conversions
- Reports of Christian girls kidnapped and forcibly converted/married in Pakistan
- Pressure on vulnerable communities to convert to majority religion
Blasphemy Law Misuse (Pakistan)
- Vague laws used to settle personal scores
- Accused often killed before trial or imprisoned for years
- International concern over human rights violations
Political Extremism
- Religious nationalism creating hostile environment
- Political marginalization of Christian communities
Call to Prayer: South Asian Christians face daily challenges that many Western believers cannot imagine. They need our prayers, advocacy, and support as they faithfully witness for Christ under difficult circumstances.
Part XI: Biblical Encouragement for South Asian Christians
Throughout centuries of challenge and persecution, South Asian Christians have found strength in God's Word:
Key Verses of Encouragement
| Scripture | Message |
|---|---|
| Matthew 5:10-12 | "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." |
| Romans 8:35-39 | "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?... Neither death nor life... nor anything else in all creation." |
| 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 | "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed." |
| Hebrews 13:6 | "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" |
| Psalm 91:1-2 | "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." |
| Acts 1:8 | "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses... to the ends of the earth." |
"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body."
— 2 Corinthians 4:8-10
Conclusion: A Resilient Faith
Christianity in South Asia is a story of apostolic origins, remarkable resilience, and vibrant faith. From Thomas walking the shores of Kerala to modern believers facing persecution in Pakistan and India, the church in this region has demonstrated that the gospel can take root in any culture and survive any challenge.
Key takeaways from this history:
- Christianity is not foreign to South Asia — It arrived in the first century, before reaching much of Europe
- The church has always been diverse — Eastern, Western, Catholic, Protestant, Pentecostal traditions all contribute
- Christians have blessed society — Through education, healthcare, and social reform
- Persecution has not destroyed the church — Rather, it has often strengthened it
- Indigenous expressions thrive — From the Zaboor to local hymnody, South Asian Christianity has its own voice
The church in India and Pakistan continues to grow, worship, serve, and witness — carrying on the mission that began when Thomas first set foot on Indian soil nearly two thousand years ago.
"My Lord and my God!" — Thomas' confession upon seeing the risen Christ (John 20:28)
This same confession has echoed across South Asia for two millennia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Did the Apostle Thomas really go to India?
Ancient tradition consistently affirms Thomas's mission to India. The St. Thomas Christians of Kerala have maintained this belief for nearly 2,000 years. While absolute historical proof is difficult for any first-century events, the tradition is ancient, widespread, and unbroken. Many scholars find it credible.
How many Christians are in Pakistan?
Estimates range from 2.6 to 3 million, approximately 1.5% of Pakistan's population. Most are concentrated in Punjab province, particularly in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Karachi.
Why do Pakistani Christians face persecution?
Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which carry severe penalties including death, are frequently misused against Christians. Social discrimination, economic marginalization, and occasional mob violence also affect the community. The minority status of Christians in an Islamic republic creates structural vulnerabilities.
What is the Zaboor?
The Zaboor is the Punjabi metrical translation of the Psalms, created by Imam-ud-Din Shahbaz (I.D. Shahbaz). It is central to Pakistani Christian worship and identity, sung in churches, homes, and at the annual Sialkot Convention.
Which Indian states have the most Christians?
The northeastern states of Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya have Christian majorities (75-90%). Kerala and Goa also have significant Christian populations. Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh have growing Christian communities as well.
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Last updated: November 20, 2025
Images sourced from Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain / Creative Commons). Artwork by Caravaggio and historical photographs.
