Revisiting the Debate: “Indianization” in Southeast Asian History

Abstract

The Indianization of Southeast Asia is a pivotal topic in the study of the region's
ancient history, marked by considerable scholarly debate. Since the early twentieth
century, researchers have been deeply engrossed in this subject, initially forming varied
perspectives. Evidence such as Hindu temples, the widespread distribution of Sanskrit
inscriptions, and mythological narratives of Indian origin have led scholars to propose an
Indianization phase in Southeast Asian history. During the early twentieth century, when
much of the Far East was under colonial rule, Western perceptions often framed
Southeast Asia as having been culturally and politically influenced by India, seen through
the lens of colonialism and the dominance of Indian dynasties. However, this viewpoint
has evolved significantly with the emergence of new historical findings and perspectives,
particularly following World War II and the subsequent independence movements in
Southeast Asia. As these nations gained autonomy and established their own identities,
scholarly inquiry into their histories underwent a reevaluation, leading to a more nuanced
understanding of the processes of cultural interaction and development in the region.