Introduction / History

The Halsar people have traditionally made their living through two very different means: cutting sugar cane, and moving dead, decaying animals.

This tribe traditionally spoke Tulu, but today they are probably more conversant with either Konkani or Kannada, two of the major languages of southwestern India. Both of these languages include many Christian materials. There are many Roman Catholics represented among Konkani speakers.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some of the cane materials are used for making baskets, and they sell the animal hides and fat for a profit. They have contact with other communities by selling these goods. Most are landless, and there are many day laborers among them.

Like many other communities in India, the Halsar people marry only within their own community, and their marriages are monogamous. They do not marry off their children. Marriages are settled through family negotiations, and the bride price is a nominal amount of money. They do not allow for divorce, and widows and widowers can remarry.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Halsar people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. 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 other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like 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?

They need the Holy Spirit to open their eyes so they can see Jesus.

Prayer Points

Pray for loving workers to go to the Halsar people, and for their hearts to be ready to receive their savior.

Pray for families of believers loving and serving others to grow reproducing churches.

Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching families that result in thousands of new disciples who share their faith with others.

Pray for grace and truth expanding into their entire society as all believers learn to love others.

Scripture Prayers for the Halsar in India.