Kuravan (Christian traditions) 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: | Kuravan (Christian traditions) |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 16,000 |
| World Population: | 16,000 |
| Primary Language: | Tamil |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 95.74 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Christian |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Kuruvan (also known as Kuravar, Malai Kuravan, or Sidhanar) are a tribal community primarily found in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of South India. The term "Kuravan" in Tamil means "hill man" or "leader." Historically, they were hunters and gatherers in the Kurinji mountain region, and their presence is noted in ancient Tamil literature such as the Sangam texts. Their primary language is Malayalam, with many also speaking Tamil, Telugu, and other regional dialects. [Kuravan (H...ua Project]
What Are Their Lives Like?
Kuruvan people traditionally worked as farmers, basket weavers, fortune tellers, and day laborers. Some also practiced tattooing and painting for a living. Due to restrictions on forest access, many have had to abandon traditional livelihoods and adapt to urban labor markets. Literacy rates are low, especially among women, and arranged marriages within extended families are common. [Kuravan (H...ua Project]
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Kuruvan community is overwhelmingly Hindu. The few Kuruvan Christians may face social isolation and spiritual challenges, as Christianity is not widely accepted within the community.
What Are Their Needs?
Kuruvan Christians are a tiny minority and often lack access to discipleship, Christian fellowship, and spiritual resources. The community as a whole faces educational disadvantages, economic hardship, and social marginalization due to their Scheduled Caste status. There is a need for culturally sensitive outreach, vocational training, and literacy programs.
Prayer Points
Pray for spiritual awakening among Kuruvan elders and youth which will lead them to disciple many.Pray for the Kuruvan Christians to take up their role in extending Christ’s kingdom to many.Pray for Bible translations and gospel recordings in Malayalam and Tamil to be widely distributed.Pray for Kuruvan believers to grow in faith and become leaders in their communities.Pray for economic upliftment, educational access, and social justice for the Kuruvan people. [Kuravan