Question

How did the geography of Srivijaya affect its cultural and religious development?

Answer 1

Srivijaya was a Malay city state located in the island of Sumatra in what is now the country of Indonesia. Srivijaya became a rich cultural and trading center, and a regional hegemon due to being surrounded by the sea, and its close proximity to Sunda and Malacca Straits. The straits were important  because much of the trading ships carrying spices, wood, and other raw materials passes through them. Srivijaya was trading with China and controlled the straits, making the state very prosperous and powerful. The state has Buddhism as its main religion, and with its power and richness, established several pilgrimages and shrines in the city too.