The traditional work of the Kahar is to carry water and carry palanquins. Palanquins were for carrying "important" people in comfort. In Bihar they speak Mugahi and read and write in Devanagari. In Uttar Pradesh the Kahar speak Bhojpuri and Hindi. In Dadra and Nagar Haveli the Kahar speak, read and write in Gujarati.
They have businesses or work in agriculture. Some sell eggs or fish for a living or work as carpenters or boatmen depending on where they live. Unfortunately, there is a lot of child labor among them. Kahar children often tend livestock or work in tea stalls. Kahar people can be married either as children or as adults, though the latter is much more common today. Those who live in cities are more likely to have marriage by the consent of the couple than those in rural areas. They allow for divorce and remarriage. Widows and widowers can remarry. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property with the oldest son taking charge of family matters. Community councils look after their interests.
They are Hindus by religion. They believe they are descended from the divine sage Kashyap, one of the 10 sons of Hinduism's creator god, Brahma.
The Kahar people need higher education for their children so they can get better, higher paying jobs.
Pray the Kahar will understand that Jesus desires to bless their families and clans, not harm them. Pray they will be able to raise their standard of living and be well equipped for the challenges of the 21st century. Pray for a disciple making movement to flourish among the Kahar community.
Scripture Prayers for the Kahar Kamkar (Hindu traditions) in India.
| Profile Source: Keith Carey |
