Relationships between Muslims and Hindus in the United States: Mlecchas versus Kafirs?

Abstract

The migration of South Asians to the United States, in significant numbers, dates back to the 1960s, following the liberalization of American immigration policies. Comprising a total population of more than one million at present, this minority has so far been known for its particularly educated, successful and dynamic segment, as a result of the American policy of the 1960s and 1970s which promoted the immigration of educated and qualified populations. It should however be kept in mind that the number of less privileged people has been growing steadily since the 1980s. Migration and settlement in a foreign land usually go together with an enhanced sense of one’s identity.

Mleccha: barbarian, non-Indian. Used derogatorily to designate non-Hindus, Muslims in particular. Kafir: unbeliever, infidel. Used derogatorily to designate non-Muslims (excluding theoretically Christians and Jews).

This article is based on PhD research conducted between 1993 and 1997 on South Asian Muslims in New York City. As the reader will soon realize, even though both Hindus and Muslims are treated here, the main focus remains on South Asian Muslims.