Saint Thomas Christian cross

Mar Thoma Sleeva are found at Kadamattom, Muttuchira, Kothanalloor, Kottayam, Pallippuram and Alangad in the South Indian state of Kerala.

[10] Antonio Gouvea states in his 16th-century work Jornada that the old churches of Saint Thomas Christians were full of crosses of the type discovered at S. Thome (Mylapore).

[23] These crosses are found in Puthenchira, Parappukkara, Veliyanad, Kalpparambu, Angamaly, Kanjoor, Malayattoor, Udayamperoor, Kuravilangad, Uzhavoor, Chungam, Kaduthuruthy, Muthalakodam, Muttuchira, Kudamaloor, Niranam, Arakuzha, Kothamangalam, Chengannur, Thumpamon, Chathannur and many other places.

[24][25][26] Recent studies have revisited the origins of the Persian crosses found in South India, suggesting they may be linked to Manichaeism rather than early Christianity.

This has led to the hypothesis that these crosses might have been used by Manichaean communities in South India, indicating a historical presence distinct from early Christian groups.

It's important to note that the cross as a symbol predates Christianity and was used in various cultural and religious contexts, including ancient Mesopotamian and Persian traditions.

The exact interpretation remains a subject of scholarly debate, highlighting the complex interplay of religious and cultural influences in the region's history.

These unique stone crosses, inscribed with Pahlavi script, are primarily located in Kerala, India, with notable examples at Kottayam, Kadamattom, and Muttuchira.

The specific design elements of the South Indian crosses, such as the dove and lotus motifs, are not typically associated with Persian Christian artifacts but do appear in Manichaean art.

The unique characteristics of these crosses, combined with the lack of similar findings in Persia, continue to fuel scholarly debate regarding their true origin and the nature of early religious influences in South India.