Introduction / History

In West Bengal in India the Kansari speak, read and write in Bengali. They are not vegetarians and eat rice. They believe in monogamy. Marriage is arranged by discussion. Divorce is discouraged. The oldest son becomes in charge of the home on the death of the father. They have birth and marriage rituals. The dead are cremated. Bell metal work is the traditional work but many now work in agriculture. A regional association looks after them. They are Hindus and are educated.

In Orissa, the Kansari make images of Hindu gods. They speak, read and write in Oriya. They have a caste council to look after them.

In Gujarat, the Kansari work in making metal utensils. They are vegetarians and speak Gujarati.

In Maharashtra, the Kansari speak Gujarati, read and write in Devanagari. They are vegetarians.

In Madhya Pradesh divorce is allowed among them. They speak Hindi, read and write in Devanagari and are vegetarians.

In Goa, the Kansari are not vegetarians and they work in business and service. They speak Marathi and read and write in Devanagari.

In Bihar, they make utensils and speak Magahi and Hindi. They read and write in Devanagari.

Prayer Points

* Pray that Kansari Association and Council leaders will come to Jesus Christ and lead others to Him.
* Pray that gospel materials will lead the Kansari to salvation.

References

Singh, K. S., ed. "India's Communities A-Z", Oxford University Press, USA 1999