Malayan, caste in India

Introduction / History

Caste Malayans speak Malayalam, the language of India’s southwestern Kerala state. Most live in Kerala, but a small number are in Sri Lanka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They often lease their farmland to landlords and work as laborers on their own land. Those with education have jobs in education, government, or small business.

Though this wasn’t always the case, their families are now nuclear. Marriages are negotiated, and there are strict rules regarding which clan one can marry into. They accept divorce and remarriage. Families pass down knowledge and cultural practices to the next generation.

Their festivals usually revolve around the agricultural cycle, but the Adimali Festival stands out as one used to promote tourism. They have rituals, music, dancing, and feasting. Ninabali involves rituals, exorcism, music, and dance. Much of it symbolizes a battle between Bhadrakali and the demon Darika. Caste Malayans also have local fairs with agricultural exhibits sponsored by the government and community organizations.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Traditional caste Malayan beliefs involve nature spirits. It is intertwined with performance arts and community rituals, often conducted in sacred groves. They are officially Hindu, but that religion allows for traditional religious practices.

What Are Their Needs?

Caste Malayans live in places where they are Christians, but they are not being reached with the gospel.

Prayer Points

Pray for loving workers to go to the caste Malayans.
Pray for the Lord to show himself powerful and loving to the Malayans.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Malayans teachable and understanding hearts.

Text Source:   Joshua Project