Introduction / History

Traditionally the Kusta people were silk weavers. They have oral traditions and stories about their migration and their jobs as weavers.

Where Are they Located?

The Kusta are a small Hindu group living in Odisha, a state in eastern India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though many Kusta people are still weavers, some have prosperous businesses where they purchase silk and use it to make clothes that they sell in the market. Surprisingly, these creative people do not have their own dance traditions. They do not marry outside their caste.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kusta people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon, especially Shiva, Narayana, and Laxmi, the latter being a goddess of prosperity. They also worship local and regional deities. The Kusta people take part in Hindu festivals, but these often have economic importance

What Are Their Needs?

Like other Hindu communities in Odisha, the Kusta people need the chance to be blessed by the powerful love and saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Kusta culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit and shaped into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Kusta family and community leaders to seek His face and enjoy His blessings.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a disciple making movement among the Kusta people.
Pray that soon the Kusta people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the Savior.

Scripture Prayers for the Kusta in India.

References

People of India, Odisha, vol. XVI, K.S. Singh