Koshti in India

Koshti
Photo Source:  Anonymous 
Map Source:  People Group Location: Omid. Other geography / data: GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
People Name: Koshti
Country: India
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 1,256,000
World Population: 1,256,000
Primary Language: Marathi
Primary Religion: Hinduism
Christian Adherents: 0.05 %
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:

Introduction / History

According to their legends, they are descendants of a famous Hindu saint named Markandi Rishi. To make a long story short, they were blessed by the gods. No doubt this prosperous community still considers themselves blessed by the gods.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Koshti people weave fine silk and cotton cloth goods worn by the wealthy.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Koshti 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 Needs?

Like all other peoples of the world, this people group needs the blessings and guidance that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Prayer Points

Pray for the few Koshti believers to have strength and faith. Pray for church-planting teams to work among them as there are no known mission agencies/churches working among them.

Pray for the setting up of income-generating projects.

Pray a good response to the Christian radio program and the JESUS Film.

Pray for a movement to Christ among this people group in the 2020s.

Text Source:   Joshua Project