Introduction / History

The Hasla people in Karnataka have a background primarily connected to agriculture and fishing. They primarily speak Kannada, the primary language of Karnataka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Hasla people live in rural coastal villages, focusing on farming and fishing. They cultivate crops such as rice, coconut, and vegetables and engage in fishing to support their livelihoods. Their diet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, with a significant emphasis on seafood. Traditional dishes such as fish curry and rice, and vegetable stews are common in their meals. Weddings among the Hasla are elaborate, involving rituals like the exchange of garlands, sacred fire ceremonies, and celebrations with music and dance.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Hasla people practice Hinduism, worshiping various deities and observing numerous religious rituals and festivals such as Diwali, Ugadi and Dussehra. Their belief system emphasizes values like dharma (duty), karma (actions and consequences), and ahimsa (non-violence). They honor their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies, ensuring the transmission of their religious and cultural traditions across generations.

What Are Their Needs?

The Hasla people need better access to quality education to provide more opportunities for their children. Improved healthcare services are essential due to 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 Hasla community.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Hasla people teachable and understanding hearts.
Pray that a strong movement of the Holy Spirit will bring entire Hasla families into a rich experience of God’s blessing.
Pray for Hasla families to be drawn by the Holy Spirit to seek forgiveness, and to understand the adequacy of Christ’s work on the cross.
Pray for teams of believers to do sustained, focused prayer for the Lord to open the hearts of Hasla family leaders to experience God’s blessing through a movement of family-based discovery Bible studies.

Scripture Prayers for the Hasla in India.

References

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