Understanding Secularism in Kerala

Secularism is often misunderstood as a concept that only pertains to government policies or religious practices. However, it is fundamentally about treating all people equally, regardless of their religious or cultural beliefs. In the state of Kerala, a prime example of a secular state in India, this notion encompasses a wide range of aspects including individual dietary preferences.

Cultural and Religious Dynamics in Kerala

Kerala, known for its rich cultural and religious diversity, has a unique blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities. Each community has its own set of beliefs and practices, including dietary restrictions. For example, Muslims in Kerala do not generally consume pork, a practice that is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. However, the right to personal choice is paramount in a secular state.

Personal Freedom and Individual Choices

It is important to recognize that personal freedom to make choices about one's diet is a fundamental right, as asserted by the principles of secularism. Just because a certain community does not consume a particular food does not mean that it poses a threat to the secular fabric of the state. For instance, many non-vegetarian Hindus and Sikhs from North India also enjoy meat, but this does not restrict their right to be part of a secular state.

Incidents of Misunderstanding and Misinformation

The question 'Do Muslims in Kerala eat pork if not then how can Kerala be called a secular state?' highlights a common misunderstanding. The argument that a secular state must enforce dietary practices of one community onto another is fallacious. Secularism is about respect for diversity and allowing individuals to follow their own beliefs without imposing external controls or restrictions.

A personal anecdote can provide a more relatable understanding. Grown-up Muslims in Kerala, like those from my family in Kannur, are often more open to diverse culinary experiences, including non-halal foods. When I travel for business to various cities in Kerala, I find that my craving for pork over chicken is not met with any social stigma.

For a more nuanced and clear understanding of secularism, it is essential to embrace quality education. It is also crucial to abstain from uninformed discussions or posts that often perpetuate misinformation. Misunderstandings like the one in the initial question can be highly misleading and might stem from a lack of knowledge or a biased perspective.

Secularism is not about imposing dietary choices but about respecting them while allowing individuals to lead their lives according to their beliefs. If a state promotes a separation of religion from governance, it inherently allows for diverse practices and individual choices, be they Muslim, Hindu, or any other community. Kerala, as a state, consistently upholds these values and thrives on its cultural and religious diversity.