The Kaikolan people live in the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala. Traditionally, the Kaikolan were involved in growing, weaving and selling cotton. They are classified as a Backwards Caste meaning they are eligible for special university admissions and public jobs. The Kaikolan speak several languages. Their main language is Tamil. Many resources are available in Tamil including a complete Bible, radio broadcasts and the JESUS Film. A small fraction of the Kaikolan claim to followers of Jesus Christ.
The Kaikolan live in extended families. The occupations of the Kaikolan who live in rural areas are agriculture and animal husbandry. Urban Kaikolan work in factories, in construction, in retail and for the government. Families and young people arrange marriages. The newly wedded couple often lives with the groom's parents. Sons inherit the property of their father upon his death. Unfortunately, the education level of many Kaikolan is low. Children frequently quit school after a few years to help their parents earn a living. A caste council settle legal issues and enforces social norms. Educated Kaikolan have found jobs in the computer science, schools, medicine and engineering.
The vast majority of the Kaikolan 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 Kaikolan 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 main yearly holidays of the Kaikolan 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. The caste system divides Hindus into four main categories. The lowest communities are outside of the caste system. The Kaikolan fit into the working class.
Most Kaikolan need to be more proficient in reading and writing. They need to learn new job skills and obtain university educations. Kaikolan villages need access to clean water, electricity and modern medicine. Most of all the Kaikolan need to hear and accept the good news of Jesus Christ. He alone can forgive their sins and grant them eternal life.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to give open minds to the Kaikolan and a hunger for God's truth. Ask the Lord to raise up a disciple making movement among the Kaikolan in this decade. Pray for a medical teams to go to Kaikolan villages and tell the Kaikolan about Jesus. Pray for Tamil Bibles to fall into the hands of seeking Kaikolan.
Scripture Prayers for the Kaikolan in India.
| Profile Source: Keith Carey |
