The Kalal of India have traditionally been involved in the production and distribution of liquor. Their name comes from the Sanskrit word for "liquor distillers." Since many Hindus look down on the use of alcohol, the Kalal began in the last century to adopt other professions like agriculture, the military, government service and law. The Kalal speak the languages of the Indian regions where they live. Their three primary languages are Telugu, Kannada and Hindi.
The Kalal people live throughout much of the nation of India. Most Kalal live in the southern Indian states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
The Kala are endogamous, that is, they marry within their community. Adult marriages and monogamy are the general practice. Families arrange most marriages in a ceremony with a Brahmin present. Most newly married couples live with or near the husband's family.
The Kalal eat meat but not beef or pork. Their main staple is rice along with fruit, vegetables and dairy products. Alcoholism is a problem in the Kalal people.
The Kalal encourage their children to pursue higher education and become professionals.
The Kalal worship Vishnu, the preserver god, in his incarnations of Rama and Krishna. The Kalal cremate their dead and the ashes are placed in a sacred river like the Ganges.
A Kalal priest leads worship, practices traditional medicine and prays to protect his people from evil spirits. The Kalal celebrate the Hindu festivals like the birthday of Rama. Holi is the spring festival of colors. Kalal worship Durga, a form of Kali, during the nine holy days of Navratri.
Pray the Lord sends Christian workers to share God's truth and compassion with the Kalal.
Pray the Kalal would be drawn to the Savior not alcohol.
Pray that the Lord produces a growing church soon in the Kalal community.
Scripture Prayers for the Kalal (Hindu traditions) in India.
| Profile Source: David Kugel |
