Velakkithalanayan in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Velakkithalanayan |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 408,000 |
| World Population: | 408,000 |
| Primary Language: | Malayalam |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Hindu - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Valinjiyar are barbers by tradition. Most of the Valinjiyar (or Velakkithalanayan) live in Kerala, a state in southwestern India. They live mostly in the Cannanore District. They speak, read and write in Malayalam, the language of Kerala.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Valinjiyar are endogamous, meaning that they prefer to marry within their group. They have cousin marriages and a bride price is paid in cash. Divorce and marrying again is allowed with council approval. Many relatives live together in the same home. On the death of the father the sons inherit the property with the oldest son then being in charge of the home. They educate their children, especially boys. Though they traditionally were traders, some are now involved with agriculture.
What Are Their Beliefs?
They are Hindus.
What Are Their Needs?
The Valinjiyar community needs to be given the chance to get their identity and dignity in Jesus Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray that God will give the Valinjiyar dreams and visions leading them to Jesus Christ. Pray for a movement to Christ that will bless this community in every way.