Cultural Assimilation and Christian Spirituality in the Writings of Arnos Padiri

Abstract

Arnos Padiri (1681-1732) is a missionary who popularised christian spirituality in Kerala. Unlike other missionaries who worked in Kerala, Padiri tried to spread christain spirituality through poetry by assimilating the Malayalam poetic tradition. Symbols of cultural integration and assimilation can be found in his religious and literary works. This paper try to evaluate Arnos Padiri’s contribution to Malayalam Language literature and culture. The unique writing method adopted by him in creating a popular foundation for christian spirituality with the support of Kerala’s cultural and literary tradition are also analyzed in this article.