South Asian, Telugu-speaking in Kuwait

People Name:	South Asian, Telugu-speaking
Country:	Kuwait
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	700
World Population:	1,183,900
Primary Language:	Telugu
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	4.00 %
Evangelicals:	1.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia - other
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The peoples of India have managed to go to other parts of the world to make their mark, and Telegu speakers are no exception. Telegu refers to a Dravidian (southern Indian) language spoken mainly in India's states of Andhra Pradesh and Telegana, where it is the official language. Early inscriptions in Telegu date back to 575AD, and literary works started in the 11th century. From the mid 1700s until India became a sovereign nation in 1948, this part of India was ruled in part by monarchs, but ultimately controlled by the British Raj. Hyderabad, as the princely state was then called, was among the most prosperous princely states of India. It is still one of India's most prosperous states. Still, some Telegus with a good education can make even more money by going to Kuwait.

Where Are they Located?

There are a small number of Telegu speakers in Kuwait, mostly located in Kuwait City.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Indians who go abroad for work are professionals. In Kuwait you will find businessmen, accountants, and doctors among the Telegu speaking community. Others take on blue-collar jobs in construction or the oil industry. Their women often work as domestic servants in private homes. Even though they are far from home in a Muslim land, Telegu speakers will keep good contact with their families and friends in southern India.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most are Hindus who look to their gods to provide them with prosperity and good fortune. They celebrate all the Hindu festivals. The dates of these festivals vary depending on the Hindu calendar, which is lunar.

Surprisingly, there is a large Telegu speaking church and Bible school in Kuwait, a solidly Muslim nation.

What Are Their Needs?

Telegu women need protection in the workplace, something that will not happen until there is a worldview change on the part of the Kuwaitis who view them as subhuman.

Prayer Points

Pray for protection for Telegu women who are at the mercy of their employers.
Pray for Telegu speaking believers to have so much joy, peace, love, and patience that their Kuwaiti employers will want the same spiritual blessings, which only come from a relationship with Christ.
Pray for Telegu speakers to begin Disciple-Making movements among other South Asian peoples and among the Kuwaiti majority.