I am from India. Although I have not heard much about "cult of Mary" but form whatever I know, Christianity came to India much before it came to Europe. So the early Christianity to have come to India came in its very pristine form and remained preserved that way for centuries. They are not all recognised as Christians by the Roman Church. U might be interested in a southern Indian state called Kerela where Christianity was the first to come anywhere in India. In fact one of the Jewish tribe comming to India came first to kerala. In fact this was also the place where Vasco DaGama first landed anywhere in India.
I have heard of this. I understand they created a thriving community in complete safety.
That's in inaccuracy. All of the "Thomas Christians" are recognized as Christians by the Catholic Church.