By Midhun J Francis

Rome, April 8, 2024: The diocese of Idukki in Kerala made headlines April 7 when it screened ‘The Kerala Story,’ a controversial 2023 film, for teenagers as part of its efforts to combat “love jihad.”

The film narrates the story of a group of Kerala women who were coerced to convert to Islam and join the Islamic State.

Marketed as a true story, the film is premised on the Hindutva conspiracy theory of “love jihad,” a conspiracy theory about Muslim men targeting Hindu and Christian women for conversion to Islam by means such as seduction, feigning love, deception, kidnapping, and marriage.

The theory falsely claims that thousands of women from other communities in Kerala have been converted to Islam and recruited in the Islamic State.

The film was heavily promoted by the Bharatiya Janata Party, especially during the campaign for the Karnataka assembly election. However, film critics accorded it overwhelmingly negative reviews, characterizing the work as Islamophobic propaganda.

The Idukki diocese purportedly screened the film for enlightenment, but raises serious concerns about the ethical responsibility of religious institutions in nurturing interfaith harmony.

What are the moral implications of such actions within the broader context of promoting understanding and fraternity between Christians and Muslims?

The diocese’s misguided approach

Idukki diocese’s decision to screen the controversial film is deeply troubling. By framing the issue in such a manner, the diocese perpetuates divisive narratives and fosters suspicion and hatred towards individuals of other faiths.

Instead of fostering mutual respect and understanding, this approach risks alienating communities and undermining the very principles of love and compassion that lie at the heart of Christianity.

Moreover, the religious institution’s endorsement of such a film raises questions about the broader implications of spiritual authority in shaping societal attitudes. While religious leaders must address contemporary challenges, they must do so in a manner that upholds the values of tolerance, dialogue, and respect for human dignity.

In this regard, I am deeply disappointed that the Idukki diocese’s actions fall short of the ethical standards expected of religious institutions in promoting a culture of peace and reconciliation.

Embracing interreligious dialogue

In contrast to Idukki diocese’s divisive approach, the imperative of fostering interreligious dialogue and understanding has been a central tenet of my journey within the Catholic Church. Growing up in a diverse community in Kerala, I have been fortunate to experience firsthand the richness of interfaith interactions.

Through meaningful relationships with Muslims and Hindus, I have come to appreciate the immense value of dialogue in fostering mutual respect and solidarity across religious boundaries.

My theological studies have further reinforced the importance of promoting dialogue and cooperation between Christians and Muslims. Inspired by the teachings of Vatican II and the insights of scholars such as Jesuit Father Tom Michael and the inspiration of another Jesuit – Father Victor Edwin, I have sought to deepen my understanding of the shared values and common humanity that unite individuals of different faith traditions.

Through my research and engagement with Muslim communities, I have come to recognize the inherent dignity and worth of every human person, regardless of religious affiliation.

As a person brought up in a Christian family with Muslim and Hindu neighbours, I have had a unique opportunity to immerse myself in diverse religious traditions from a young age. In my hometown (in Kerala), where a church, a mosque, and several temples coexist harmoniously, I learned early on the importance of embracing religious diversity as a source of strength rather than division. Each day would commence with the Angelus bell, the call to prayer (azan), and temple hymns, fostering an atmosphere of tolerance and acceptance.

My journey of spiritual discovery has been enriched by encounters with Muslims who have exemplified the principles of compassion, hospitality, and mutual respect. From childhood friends like Ansar, whose bonds transcend religious boundaries, to the love and guidance provided by individuals like “Umma,” the grandmother figure from a Muslim household, I have been deeply inspired by the kindness and generosity of the Muslim community.

Having cultivated close relationships with Muslims in particular, I have been entrusted by the Catholic Church and the Society of Jesus with the task of promoting interreligious relationship between Christians and Muslims.

This responsibility, rooted in the mission of the Church, underscores the growing need for constructive engagement and understanding between different faith communities. Indeed, the current era presents unprecedented opportunities for Christians and Muslims to engage in meaningful conversations about their spiritual traditions.

Moreover, my research exploration of Islam, guided by the writings of scholars such as Father Michael has reinforced my belief in the shared values and common aspirations that unite Christians and Muslims. Recognising the humanity and dignity inherent in each individual, irrespective of religious background, lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Advocating for a message of love and acceptance

In light of Idukki diocese’s decision, we must reaffirm our commitment to promoting love, peace, and acceptance as members of the Christian community. The screening ‘The Kerala Story’ represents a missed opportunity to educate young people about the importance of dialogue, respect, and understanding in building a more harmonious society.

As responsible citizens and faithful members of the Church, we must voice our concerns and advocate for a message of inclusivity and compassion. We must hold our religious leaders accountable to the ethical principles that underpin our faith tradition and urge them to prioritise efforts that foster interfaith harmony and cooperation.

In conclusion, the challenges posed by religious extremism and intolerance require a concerted effort from all members of society, including all religious institutions (Christians, Muslims and Hindus in Kerala). By embracing the values of dialogue, empathy, relationship and solidarity, we can work towards a future where individuals of all faiths can coexist peacefully and respectfully.

As humanity, let us heed the call to be instruments of God’s love and agents of reconciliation in a world desperately needing healing and unity. Embracing interreligious dialogue is not merely a theological imperative but a practical necessity in our increasingly interconnected world.

By fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation, we can build bridges of peace and fraternity that transcend religious differences and create a more just and compassionate society.