Introduction / History

The name Kapali means fortunate. Many of the Kapali migrated to India from East Bengal which is now Bangladesh. The Kapali speak, read and write in Bengali. Some of them can speak Hindi. They are not vegetarians which indicates they do not have high status as a Hindu community. Most of the Kapali of India live in West Bengal, but a smaller number live in nearby eastern states as well as Bangladesh. In Bihar the Kapali are landless. Many are now working in shops as teachers and in government work. In Tripura the Kapali men are good at craft work and the women do embroidery.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are landowners. Agriculture is the main work. Some do office work. They use government benefit plans. They are exogamous, meaning they seek to marry outside their clan or group. They do not allow for divorce. They sometimes allow for remarriage. When the father dies, sons inherit the property.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kapali 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.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kapali people need the eternal blessings that only come from a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Prayer Items

Pray that God gives the Kapali dreams and visions leading their communities to a disciple making movement. Pray that Indian believers will be active in leading many to seek and find the living Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Kapali in India.