[2] It is cited as an independent monistic[3] religion by several newspapers,[4][5][6] government reports[7][8] and academic researchers.
[9][10][11][12] In Indian censuses, however, the majority of its followers declare themselves as Hindus.
[13][14][15] Ayyavazhi is centered on the life and preachings of Lord Vaikundar; its ideas and philosophy are based on the holy texts Akilathirattu Ammanai and Arul Nool.
Ayyavazhi shares many ideas with Hinduism in its mythology and practice, but differs considerably in its concepts of good and evil and dharma.
[16] Ayyavazhi is closely related to other Indian religions because of its central focus on dharma.