Introduction / History

The Madiga people are occupational shoe makers in the caste society of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. They belong to Scheduled Caste Community. Traditionally they are considered outcastes doing unclean jobs so untouchables.

Where Are they Located?

They are located in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Their houses are in the outskirts of villages. They do jobs connected with leather and dead cattle. They make shoes, belts and other leather materials. They also play 'tappeta' a hand drum before village deities. They perform rituals like yoke roping the new bullocks. They also attend cremation duties. They are poor.

What Are Their Beliefs?

After the colonial rule many of them had converted to Christianity. Some follow Buddhism due to the influence of Dr. B R Ambedkar. Some follow Hinduism.

Prayer Points

Though many of them had converted to Christianity, since they remain nominal Spiritual revival, education and Employment are urgent needs for prayer.