Introduction / History

The Dora people have a strong connection to agriculture and traditional crafts. They primarily speak Odia, the language of their home state, Odisha.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Dora people live in rural villages, focusing on farming and small-scale craftsmanship. They cultivate crops such as rice, pulses and vegetables. Their communities value strong family ties and mutual support. They navigate economic challenges while celebrating their culture through local festivals, music and traditional arts.

The Dora people's eating practices involve a diet that includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, featuring rice, pulses, vegetables and fish. They enjoy traditional dishes such as fish curry and dalma (a lentil and vegetable stew) during everyday meals and festive occasions. Their culinary practices emphasize the use of locally available ingredients, reflecting their cultural and regional preferences.

The wedding practices of the Dora people are elaborate and deeply rooted in Hindu traditions. Weddings typically include Hindu rituals such as the exchange of garlands, sacred fire ceremonies with vibrant music and dance performances.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Dora people practice Hinduism, worshiping various deities and observing numerous religious rituals and festivals like Diwali, Rath Yatra and Durga Puja. Their belief system emphasizes values like dharma (duty), karma (actions and consequences), and ahimsa (non-violence). Rituals and ceremonies honoring their ancestors ensure the transmission of their religious and cultural traditions across generations.

What Are Their Needs?

The Dora people need better access to quality education to provide more opportunities for their children. Improved healthcare services are essential, given the limited availability of medical facilities and high rates of preventable diseases. Economic support through modern agricultural techniques, market access, and vocational training can enhance their livelihoods. Infrastructure development, including better roads, clean water supplies, and reliable electricity, will greatly benefit the Dora community. Addressing these needs will help the Dora people achieve greater socio-economic stability.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to give Dora farmers a record high yield as a testimony of his power and goodness.
Pray that believers would settle among this people group and share the ways of the savior with them.
Pray for all Christians in Odisha to grow in love for one another as a testimony of Christ’s goodness.
Pray for grace and truth to be instilled in hearts of the Dora people.

Scripture Prayers for the Dora in India.

References

Cultural Traditions of Odisha, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, 2017.
Sharma, B.K., "Agricultural Practices in Eastern India," Mittal Publications, 2012.
"Rural Development in Odisha," Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India,