The official advent of the Carmelites to Kerala, then called the Malabar mission, was in 1657. The Apostolic Delegate of the first group was Fra. Giuseppe of Holy Mary, belonging to the family of Sebastiani of Caprarola, in Italy and he was accompanied by another important person, Fr. Vincenzo of St. Catherine, the author of the famous book “Viaggi alle Indie Orientali”. Taking the sea route, both of them reached Cochin on 22nd February 1657. Their strenuous efforts paved the foundation stone for the Carmelite Mission in Kerala.

Today, from its humble beginnings, the seed of the Carmelite Mission has grown up into a big tree, stretching its branches in an impressive manner all over India. Presently the Discalced Carmelites in India are divided into 7 Provinces, 1 Provincial Delegations and 3 Regional Vicariates. The total members would be around 900. Besides, the Cloistered Carmels, the female Carmelites in India are divided under 8 congregations.