Carpentry has been the traditional source of livelihood for this community. Remarriage of a female divorcee or widow is not permissible in some areas. All children inherit property equally. Their statutory council plans and implements welfare and development activities. The majority are followers of the Vaishnava sect of Hinduism, but some are Shakta. Vishwakarma is their patron deity and Lakshmi their family deity. Kali, Shani, etc. are village deities. Dakshineswar, Tarakeshwar, Puri, etc. are pilgrimage centers. A Brahmin priest serves to perform birth, marriage and death rites, as well as worship.

Hinduism produces an environment of much spiritual darkness, making it difficult for the light of the Gospel to penetrate.

Perhaps the youth of the Sutradhar community will discover the availability of the Jesus film, Gospel recordings and scripture on the Internet. Pray they will view and listen to these and will be given understanding.

None of the Sutradhar community have identified themselves as Christians to the census of India. It's possible there are a few secret believers. However, it's not too early to pray for the many who will someday come to saving faith. Pray for improving literacy rates for this community, especially for the youth, and also for the development of skills that will make people employable.

Scripture Prayers for the Sutradhar (Hindu traditions) in India.