Muslim Cultures in the Indian Ocean: Diversity and Pluralism, Past and Present

This book examines the role of Muslim communities in the emergence of connections and mobilities across the Indian Ocean World from a longue durée perspective. Spanning the 7^th century through the medieval period until the present day, this book aims to move beyond the usual focus on geographical sub-regions to highlight different aspects of interconnectivity in relation to Islam. Analysing textual and material evidence, contributors examine identities and diasporas, manuscripts and literature, as well as vernacular and religious architecture. It aims to explore networks and circulations of peoples, ideas and ideologies, as well as art, culture, religion and heritage. It focuses on global interactions as well as local agencies in context.

Stéphane Pradines is Professor of Islamic Art, Architecture and Archaeology at the Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations, Aga Khan University, London. He is the author of Earthen Architecture in Muslim Cultures (Brill, 2017) and numerous books published in French.

Farouk Topan is Associate Professor and former Interim Director of AKU-ISMC and series editor of Exploring Muslim Contexts. His research interests include Swahili literature; Islam in African literature; African poetry; and identity in East Africa. He has published widely on various aspects of these subjects, as well as on religion and spirit possession in East Africa, and is series editor of Exploring Muslim Contexts.