Introduction / History

The Mala are also known as Adi-Andhra. The traditional occupation of the Mala is agricultural labor in the fields of land owning communities, or weaving goods out of cotton or silk.

They are either “other backward castes” or “scheduled castes” which indicates a lower to middle status. The Mala have various sub-groups such as Charu, Reddi, Parayan, Bandari, Dasu and Vettuvan. Some of these have slightly higher status than others.

The Vettuvan Mala people live in northern Kerala and speak Malayalam, the local language of Kerala. The Vettuvan Mala work in settled cultivation and some as agricultural laborers. The women make mats and baskets. They have a caste association to look after their interests.

They are monogamous, meaning that marriage is between one man and one woman. Property is inherited by the sons. Unlike most Hindus, they bury their dead.

Their education level, though not extremely low, is on the low side. Therefore, the gospel may need to be given to the Vettuvan Mala in oral form.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Vettuvan Mala 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 Beliefs?

The Vettuvan Mala people need a John 10:10 blessing: The abundant life Jesus offers those who are willing to submit to his lordship.

What Are Their Needs?

Pray that Indian Christians lead the Vettuvan people into a disciple making movement.

Pray that the association leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead others to him.

Pray for them to have the spiritual hunger it takes to embrace Christ no matter what the cost.

Prayer Points

Scripture Prayers for the Mala Vettuvan in India.

References

Singh, K. S., ed. "India's Communities A-Z", Oxford University Press, USA 1999
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mala_(caste)