Introduction / History

The Kalavantulu in Andhra Pradesh speak, read and write in Telugu. Others live in Karnataka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They work in temple service, in agriculture and as laborers. Others work in a variety of jobs such as carpentry and government service.

They are not vegetarians. They prefer cross cousin marriages. The divorced can marry again. The dead are buried or cremated. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property and take over his family responsibilities.

They have a council to settle their disputes. They use medical benefits.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kalavant 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?

Their literacy level is low so the gospel will need to be given in oral form too.

Prayer Items

Pray that God will give them dreams and visions leading them to Jesus Christ.

Pray that gospel recordings will lead them to salvation.

Scripture Prayers for the Kalavant in India.

References

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