Abstract

This review article argues that the genesis of shrine veneration in Bengal can be traced to the region’s historical evolution as a convergence of varied religious and cultural influences. The manifestation of Islam in Bengal exhibited a unique adaptation to the prevailing local cultural milieu, thereby exerting a significant impact on both religious practices and societal structures. The phenomenon of Islamization within Bengal exemplifies the manner in which Islam integrated itself into the pre-existing cultural framework of the region while simultaneously instigating transformative changes. The historical footprint of Islam in Bengal can be delineated through its engagements with local traditions and the socio-political landscape that characterized the area. This encompasses the assimilation of Sufi practices, which harmonized with Bengal’s indigenous spiritual traditions, thereby fostering a tolerant and pluralistic iteration of Islam that is deeply entrenched in the region. The metamorphosis was not solely religious in nature but also encompassed social dimensions, influencing local caste hierarchies and presenting an egalitarian alternative to the entrenched Brahmanical orthodoxy that predominated prior to the ascendance of Islam. Over the course of centuries, this progression culminated in the establishment of a distinct Bengali Muslim identity, which significantly contributed to the historical efficacy of Islam in the region while simultaneously forging a new social reality that persists to this day. This study undertakes a detailed analysis of the connections among Bengal’s socio-political background, its religious diversity, and ongoing academic debates, aiming to clarify the complex elements that influence shrine worship in Bengal, thus promoting a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage.