This study employs digital humanities methodologies to analyze attacks on places of worship in South Asia over four decades (1982-2022), focusing on the connections between martyrdom ideologies and violent extremism within a digital context. By utilizing digital archives, databases, and tools for text mining and data visualization, this research contextualizes the increase in assaults on diverse religious sites—mosques, temples, and churches—amid intensifying communal tensions prevalent in the region. The investigation integrates both quantitative data analysis and qualitative case studies drawn from digital repositories, offering a nuanced understanding of the motivations behind these attacks.
The findings reveal that extremist groups adapt and disseminate the concept of martyrdom through digital platforms, legitimizing violence against religious minorities while embedding their narratives within broader ideological, cultural, and geopolitical discourses. Furthermore, this study critically examines the role of social media as a catalyst in amplifying martyrdom ideologies, demonstrating its profound effects on community dynamics and interfaith relations in both online and offline realms.
By foregrounding the cyclical relationship between martyrdom and violence in sacred spaces, the research poses significant implications for peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts in South Asia. This work aims to enrich academic discourse on religious violence through the lens of digital humanities, providing vital insights for policymakers and conflict resolution practitioners engaged in promoting sustainable interfaith dialogue and community resilience in an increasingly digital world.