Rapprochement Between East Coast of India and Southeast Asia: a Discourse on Cultural Contact

The Indian cultural influence in Southeast Asia forms a fascinating aspect of India-Southeast Asia relations. The transmission of many aspects of Indian culture to the vast regions of Southeast Asia without military conquest is truly amazing. It is one of the notable achievements of Indian history. Close cultural interaction of India with Southeast Asia began from prehistoric times and continued until the beginning of colonial rule. India's relations with Southeast Asia passed through many vicissitudes. This assumes much importance as India is trying its best to be major power in the region with its look East Policy in the new millennium. The Indian cultural influence was by peaceful and non-political methods. The culturally rich east coast of India played a significant part in this cultural rapprochement