The conversion story of the Chera king Perumal further accelerated the growth of Islam.In Muslim traditions, this tale of Perumal's conversion is frequently cited as a source of prestige and pride, reflecting the rich historical and cultural legacy of the community.Though the Cheraman Perumal episode is a matter of controversy among historians and the exact period of conversion remains unclear, traditions assert that the last Chera king, Perumal, converted to Islam, traveled to Makkah, and met Prophet Muhammad.According to legends, Perumal witnessed the splitting of the moon, a miracle attributed to the Prophet, and consulted astrologers about its significance.Arab merchants visiting the region later informed him about Islam and the miracle.Inspired, the king decided to travel to Arabia to meet the Prophet.Accompanied by Arab missionaries, he embraced Islam and was given the name Tajuddin (meaning "Crown of Religion").On his return journey, he passed away at Muqalla, in South Arabia.
Before his death, Perumal reportedly sent letters to his deputies in different parts of Kerala through his Arab companions, including Malik Dinar, a relative of the South Arabian King Malik bin Habib.Another version of the story places the Cheraman Perumal episode a century after the Prophet’s death, while some attribute it to the 12th century.
