The Sthanu Ravi copper plate inscriptions record an agreement between merchants of the Malabar coast and some Christian merchants from _______

The correct answer is - The Persian Gulf region

Key Points

• Sthanu Ravi copper plate inscriptions
  • The inscriptions are dated to the reign of Sthanu Ravi, a ruler of the Chera dynasty in South India during the 9th century CE.
  • The plates record an agreement between local merchants of the Malabar Coast (modern-day Kerala) and Christian traders.
• The Persian Gulf region
  • The Christian merchants involved in the agreement are believed to have originated from the PERSIAN GULF region, which was a significant hub of trade and commerce during the medieval period.
  • The Persian Gulf acted as a key connector between the Middle East, India, and other parts of Asia, enabling the exchange of goods, culture, and religion.
• Significance of the agreement
  • The agreement highlights the importance of international trade during the medieval period and the role of the Malabar Coast as a vital trading hub.
  • It also reflects the coexistence and collaboration between different religious communities, such as Christians and Hindus.

Additional Information

• Malabar Coast
  • The Malabar Coast (modern-day Kerala) was a major center for spice trade, attracting traders from regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and China.
  • It served as a gateway for the introduction of various religions, including Christianity, to India.
• Role of the Persian Gulf in medieval trade
  • The Persian Gulf was a critical node in the Indian Ocean trade network, connecting India to the Middle East and beyond.
  • It was home to several important trading cities, such as Basra and Hormuz, which facilitated the exchange of goods like spices, textiles, and precious metals.
• Christianity in Kerala
  • Christianity is believed to have been introduced to Kerala by St. Thomas, one of Jesus's apostles, in the 1st century CE.
  • The Christian merchant community in Kerala played a significant role in fostering trade and maintaining cultural connections with other Christian communities across the world.