Knanaya Community

The Knanaya community is a distinct Christian group within the broader Saint Thomas Christian tradition of India, primarily found in Kerala. They believe their ancestors migrated from Palestine to India around the 4th century AD, maintaining unique cultural, religious, and social customs. Known for their strong emphasis on endogamy and community cohesion, the Knanaya preserve specific liturgical practices and heritage, including their own churches and traditions. While integrated into the broader Indian Christian society, they historically maintain a sense of identity rooted in their ancestral origins and customs.