Kuravan (Hindu traditions) in India

Introduction / History

Kuravan means palmistry. In Tamil Nadu, Kuravan means hill man. They are a scheduled caste. They live scattered throughout the southern half of India, though some live further north in Odisha and Madhya Pradesh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Except for the ones in Kerala, the literacy level is low. They have cousin marriages. The Kuravan work as farmers or day laborers. Some of their men make baskets. Others tell fortunes for a fee. Some do tattoos or paint for a living.

They use modern medicines. Boys are more likely to get an education than girls.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kuravan 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?

The Kuravan people need to put their hope in the King of kings, realizing that he is the one who gives them worth and dignity.

Prayer Points

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

Pray that gospel recordings will lead them to salvation.

Pray for the Lord to thrust out loving workers.

Text Source:   Joshua Project