Introduction / History

Kamsala people consider themselves equal with Brahmins, and practice many of their customs. They also claim equality with Brahmins. This belief influences much of their lives and value systems.

Where Are they Located?

Most of the Kamsala people live in Odisha, but a smaller number live further south in Tamil Nadu.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Kamsala people recognize five separate groups among themselves: goldsmiths, brass-smiths, carpenters, stone masons, and iron workers. They marry within their groups, but goldsmiths have higher social status. Each division has a head man, and the five head men meet to decide policy. These head men are the key people who influence the entire group.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kamsala people 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. They 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 like Christians or Jews. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

The main yearly holidays of the Kamsala people are Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

Although audio, visual, and written Bible resources are available in Odia, their spoken language, they remain unreached and unengaged with the truth of the gospel. Their greatest need is to understand the infinite love of Almighty God for them, and his provisional payment for the penalty of their sins. They need the light of the gospel to shine in their communities so that they can enjoy the abundant life Jesus offers all who call on His name.

Prayer Points

Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Kamsala people.
Pray for a movement of Kamsala households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Kamsala people to the arms of Jesus.
Pray for workers who are filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit to go to the Kamsala people.

Scripture Prayers for the Kamsala in India.

References

https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Castes_and_Tribes_of_Southern_India/Kamsala