the modern theories of indianisation
The theory most widely accepted today is the concept of diffusion.
This means that Indian influence wasn't spread by force and Southeast Asia wasn't merely a passive recipient of Indian ideas. It was more of a peaceful exchange of cultures, such as discussed in the Vaishya Theory. However, Indian culture could have been spread through a combination of the earlier theories, as well as through other means.
Another important aspect of this theory is that syncretism was practised, and Southeast Asians adopted and adapted Indian traditions to suit their purposes. Indianisation in the region is believed to have been through diffusion and cultural borrowing as by the time the Indians came, Southeast Asian culture was already very sophisticated, rich and diverse.
In conclusion, this current theory believes that Indianisation consisted of the Southeast Asian countries adapting and modifying Indian culture and concepts to suit its needs.
Based on this theory, I believe that Indian influence could have been spread through both the Vaishyas and the Brahmins. The Vaishyas would be able to spread Indian culture and traditions via peaceful means, for example while trading goods with the locals. This is in line with the theory of cultural diffusion. Meanwhile, the Brahmins would be able to spread the more complex concepts of kingship, politics and the universe. These concepts were spread to the region and were also important aspects of the Indianisation of Southeast Asia, and hence I believe that the Brahmins also played a part - even if it was a small one - in the Indianisation of Southeast Asia.
Now, we'll be moving on to the next exhibit - The Khmer Empire.
This means that Indian influence wasn't spread by force and Southeast Asia wasn't merely a passive recipient of Indian ideas. It was more of a peaceful exchange of cultures, such as discussed in the Vaishya Theory. However, Indian culture could have been spread through a combination of the earlier theories, as well as through other means.
Another important aspect of this theory is that syncretism was practised, and Southeast Asians adopted and adapted Indian traditions to suit their purposes. Indianisation in the region is believed to have been through diffusion and cultural borrowing as by the time the Indians came, Southeast Asian culture was already very sophisticated, rich and diverse.
In conclusion, this current theory believes that Indianisation consisted of the Southeast Asian countries adapting and modifying Indian culture and concepts to suit its needs.
Based on this theory, I believe that Indian influence could have been spread through both the Vaishyas and the Brahmins. The Vaishyas would be able to spread Indian culture and traditions via peaceful means, for example while trading goods with the locals. This is in line with the theory of cultural diffusion. Meanwhile, the Brahmins would be able to spread the more complex concepts of kingship, politics and the universe. These concepts were spread to the region and were also important aspects of the Indianisation of Southeast Asia, and hence I believe that the Brahmins also played a part - even if it was a small one - in the Indianisation of Southeast Asia.
Now, we'll be moving on to the next exhibit - The Khmer Empire.