The Kalal Idiga or Gowda are a Hindu people who live in south India. Their traditional occupation has been that of the production and selling of liquor. The two main languages that the Kalal Idiga speak are Telugu and Kannada.
Some Kalal Idiga have left their original profession and have become small businesspersons and farmers.
The Kalal Idiga 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.
Since the distillation of alcohol is a job that is scorned by some Hindus and Muslims, the Kalal who become believers may have a difficult time integrating into the church. They will need new jobs when they discover God's will for their lives.
Bibles, literature and radio programs are available in Telugu and Kannada. Hindu background believers can share with the Kalal the good news about Christ.
There are a small number of Kalal believers. Pray that they might grow spiritually and lead their brothers and sisters to Christ. Pray that the Kalal leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead others to Him.
Pray that many of God's people will intercede for the Kalal.
Pray that God will overthrow spiritual forces of darkness opposing the spread of His gospel among the Kalal people.
Scripture Prayers for the Kalal Idiga in India.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
