The Kangri-speaking Hindu Seok people live in the mountainous state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Historically, they have been involved in agriculture and animal husbandry, using the region’s fertile valleys and grazing lands for sustenance. Over generations, the Seok people have maintained their agricultural practices, adapting to changes in the environment and economy while continuing to rely on the land for their livelihood.
The Seok people primarily engage in farming, cultivating crops like wheat, maize and vegetables that are well-suited to the region's climate. In addition to agriculture, many families raise livestock, such as goats and sheep, which play an essential role in their economy. They rely on family labor to manage their farms and livestock, with all members contributing to planting, harvesting and caring for animals.
Most Seok families live in rural villages, where homes are built from locally available materials such as stone, mud and wood, reflecting the region’s climate and geography. Life in the villages revolves around farming, family responsibilities and religious observances. While younger members of the community are increasingly pursuing education and jobs in nearby towns, many return to assist their families during key agricultural seasons.
The Seok people practice Hinduism, worshiping deities like Shiva, Vishnu and Durga, along with local gods associated with the land and mountains. Their religious practices are closely tied to the agricultural cycle, with festivals like Diwali, Holi and Makar Sankranti holding significant importance in their lives. These festivals mark key moments in the farming calendar and provide opportunities for the community to come together in worship and celebration.
Temples and shrines are central to village life, serving as places of worship and social gathering. Religious leaders within the community guide the Seok people in conducting rituals, offering prayers for good harvests, healthy livestock and protection from natural calamities.
The Seok people face challenges related to economic development, education and healthcare. Traditional farming methods leave them vulnerable to environmental changes, such as erratic weather patterns and crop failure. Access to modern farming tools, irrigation systems and sustainable agricultural techniques would help improve their economic stability and crop productivity.
Education is another critical need in Seok villages. While some children attend local schools, access to quality education is often limited in rural areas, restricting opportunities for the younger generation. Expanding educational resources and infrastructure would enable the Seok people to pursue diverse career paths beyond agriculture.
Healthcare services are often inadequate, with families traveling long distances to reach medical facilities. Improving healthcare infrastructure in rural areas and ensuring access to basic medical services would greatly enhance the well-being of the Seok community.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Seok people teachable and understanding hearts.
Pray that a strong movement of the Holy Spirit will bring entire Seok families into a rich experience of God’s blessing.
Pray for Seok 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 their educational and medical needs to be met.
Scripture Prayers for the Seok in India.
Ethnologue: Languages of the World
Reports from Indian NGOs on rural communities in Himachal Pradesh
Academic research on agricultural practices and rural development in northern India
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
