Samagara in India

People Name:	Samagara
Country:	India
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	89,000
World Population:	89,000
Primary Language:	Kannada
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Online Audio NT:	No
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Dalit - other
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Samagara people live mainly in the South Indian states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The main occupation of the Samagara is the production of leather and manufacture of footwear. Presently a large number have switched over to other professions. Education among the present generation is on the rise. Women work and also wield power in making decisions. In addition to Malayalam they also speak Kannada and Tula. A certain cluster of families are highly educated and work in the professions.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Samagara practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain "moksha" or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Samagara 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 as Christians do. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs. The main yearly holidays of the Samagara people are 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. The caste system divides Hindus into four main categories - Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas and the Shudras. Dalits and tribal peoples are outside of the caste system. The Samagara are devotees of Shiva, the destroyer god and Durga, the mother goddess. They conduct regular satsang (worship) on Sundays.

What Are Their Needs?

The Samagara need financial help to rise out of poverty. Once given an opportunity, they will probably advance quickly. Most of all the Samagara need to hear and understand the message of Jesus Christ. He alone can forgive their sins and grant them eternal life.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to send out workers to the Samagara people to tell them the gospel. Pray for a spiritual hunger that will give the Samagara people a willingness to receive the blessings of Jesus Christ. Pray for a disciple making movement that will bless the Samagara people this decade.