History Distorted by Jihadis: Fabricated Story of Cheraman Perumal to be Filmed for Supporting Islamization

Kochi:  There are widespread speculations over the forthcoming Mammootty flick ‘The Companion’. Sources indicate that the story, depicting the life and times of Cheraman Perumal, based on a figment of imagination and widely upheld by Jihadis, is yet another step towards the Islamization of Kerala.
 
According to the craftily created fable, which is neither supported by historians nor has credible proof to back the story, is conveniently being used by Jihadis for propagating Islam. The tale, which is a figment of imagination depicts King Cheraman Peumal to be a contemporary of Prophet Mohammed, having converted to Islam after having travelled to Mecca. This is said to have resulted in large scale Islamization in Kerala.

However, history indicates that Prophet Mohammed lived during 6th century AD, with King Cheraman Perumal having lived almost two and a half centuries before him. This solidly rebuts the conversion theory. So also Muslim, Christian and Chinese travelers who visited Kerala since 850 AD give no account of any such conversion. Even Suleiman the Persian traveler who visited Kerala in 850 AD, had specifically recorded that no convert to Islam was seen in the state. 
 
In addition to these, other historical data found in ‘Periya Puranam’ of 12th century, ‘Thiruvilayadal’ from 11th to 13th centuries clearly indicate that Cheraman Perumal was a staunch and practicing Shaivite till he breathed his last. Noted historians like Dr MGS Narayanan have rejected the fable of Cheraman Perumal having converted to Islam.
 
It is therefore a clear case of deception, cleverly fabricated by Muslim writers, which has later been used by Jihadis to further their nefarious cause. Among them is Prof Dr HM Illyasi, whose research paper has been used as base for the Mammootty starrer. The movie is estimated to be produced at a budget of Rs 100 crore. Ben Kingsley will be seen in a prominent role in the movie.
 
A previous Mammootty starrer ‘1921’ ran into controversy, for deliberately distorting the blood soaked Mappila Revolt, giving it a favourable angle to the Muslim community. Now, with ‘The Companion’ set for a multi-lingual release, it is greatly apprehended that the movie, favouring conversion to Islam will sow further seeds of antagonism. 

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