What sort of spaces have local South Asian religious scholars carved out for themselves? In the aftermath of India’s vivisection, both reformist and traditionalist Shi’i scholars attempted to contain this dangerous potential. This catering to various audiences proved a useful strategy when Shi’i scholars referred to the Islamic scholarly tradition of the subcontinent. Religious scholars also frequently invoked their (imagined) influential standing in the wider Muslim world, which endowed them with additional legitimacy back home. By acquiring charisma in this fashion, the religious scholars also demonstrate their ability to emerge as religious leaders with serious political implications.

Source: The Telegraph May 07, 2020 21:11 UTC