The name Chenna comes from a word meaning "pole." The Chenna Dasar live primarily in the South Indian state of Karnataka, but many also live in Maharashtra. In Karnataka they primarily live in Dharwad and Belgaum. They speak Kannada and write in the Kannada script.
Most Chenna work as mendicants, dedicated to Lord Venkateshwara, god of Tirupathi. Increasingly more of them work in agriculture and as day wage laborers. They are not vegetarians but do avoid eating beef and pork. They also drink alcoholic beverages on special occasions. They have arranged marriages that take place between different clans. The couple marries as adults, and the celebration happens at the home of the groom. The subsequent marriage feast is celebrated at the home of the bride's family. The groom's family pays a bride price to her family.
The Dasar Chenna practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain "moksha" or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Chenna visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods as Christians do. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs. The Chenna Dasar pay special reverence to the gods Hanuman, the half human and monkey god and the goddess of devotion, Yellamma. They also venerate and pray to their ancestors.
The Chenna Dasar people need the forgiveness of their sins and hope that only Christ can offer.
Pray for workers sent out by the Holy Spirit to tell the Chenna Dasar people about Jesus. Pray for this people group to have a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the cross and the Word of God. Pray for a discipleship making movement to Christ among the Chenna Dasar this decade.
Scripture Prayers for the Chenna Dasar in India.
| Profile Source: Keith Carey |
