Kumhar, Kusavar (Hindu traditions) in India

Introduction / History

According to ancient Indian mythology the Kumhar are offspring of Lord Braham (Prajapati). This is why in some places in India the Kumhar use Pajapati / Prajapat as a surname according to the Indian caste system. Indian culture cannot be understood without acknowledging Kumhar. They claim to be the first inventors of the wheel. Their name means makers of earthen pottery. The Kumhar can be found throughout India. They speak the languages of the areas where they live.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kumhar's livelihood is agriculture, animal husbandry and making earthen pots. It is very difficult for a Kumhar artisan to maintain his existence by kumbhkal, or pot making. They are very honest people and make their livelihood by hard work. They are highly spiritual, honest, and hard working. For the most part, Kumhar farmers work on land owned by higher castes. They are given a portion of the crops at harvest time.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kumhar are Hindu and pray to the Lord Shiva, the destroyer god and Goddess Mother Mata.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kumhar need to learn new job skills. They need good schools for their children. Education is a challenge for the Kumhar since many of them lead nomadic lives. Children often quit school after a few years to help their parents earn a living. The Kumhar frequently lack access to modern medicine and clean water.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual hunger for the Kumhar community that will lead them to Christ. Pray for a disciple making movement that will bless the Kumhar this decade. Pray for the Lord to send out teams of workers to help the Kumhar people with their spiritual and physical needs.

Text Source:   Keith Carey