The Trishul on the Cross

Abstract

This article intends to study the methods used by Hindu missionaries to bring the tribals within their fold in order to avoid the spread and popularity of Christianity among the tribals. Barring a few scholars like S.C. Roy and K.N. Sahay, no one has ever tried to look into the activities of Hindu missionaries in the region prior to 1947. The primary sources clearly show that in their methods they were quite organised and united, contrary to the views of most scholars. It is argued in the article that the main objective of Hindu missionaries was to check Christian missionary activities instead of promoting upliftment work among the tribals. The information culled from newspapers, the Patna State Archives and other materials form the source of evidences used to formulate and substantiate arguments in the article.