Kumhar Magahia in Nepal

Introduction / History

Kumhar is a caste of pottery makers and clay artists in India and Nepal. Within the Kumhar community, there are subgroups such as the Magahias and others.

Where Are they Located?

The Magahia sector of the Kumhar caste live mainly in India's states of West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. A smaller number live in Nepal.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Maghia Kumhar people are monogamous, meaning marriage is between one man and one woman. Marriages are decided by the families of both parties and by the man and woman. They don't allow for divorce. The bereaved can marry again. On the death of the father, the sons inherit the property. They often own land which they cultivate for their food needs. Some work in business. A caste council looks after their needs.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Magahia Kumhar people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain moksha or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. 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 many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

The main yearly holidays of the Magahia Kumhar people are 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 Needs?

The Magahia Kumhar people need the chance to live the abundant life Christ offers all peoples and nations. They have very little chance to hear the gospel message at this time, and none of them are believers at this time.

Prayer Points

Pray for gospel workers to catch a vision for reaching the Magahia Kumhar people for Jesus and that in God's sovereign timing their hearts would be open and ready to follow Him.
Pray for Jesus movements to bless extended families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Magahia Kumhar people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.
Pray for the lives and culture of the Magahia Kumhar people to evidence the rule and reign of the Kingdom of God as they open to the gospel, and for the beauty of Jesus to be seen in them.

Text Source:   Keith Carey