Kusiari in Bangladesh

Kusiari
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Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
People Name: Kusiari
Country: Bangladesh
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 7,500
World Population: 9,500
Primary Language: Sylheti
Primary Religion: Hinduism
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia Hindu - other
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Hindu Kusiari people have a background primarily connected to agriculture and trade. They primarily speak Bengali, which is common in both West Bengal, India, and Bangladesh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kusiari people live in rural villages and small towns, focusing on farming and local trade. They grow crops such as rice, jute, and vegetables. Many also engage in small-scale trading and artisanal crafts. Their diet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, featuring staples like rice, lentils, vegetables and fish. Traditional dishes such as macher jhol (fish curry) and bhat (rice) are common in their meals.

Weddings among the Kusiari are elaborate, involving Hindu rituals like the exchange of garlands, sacred fire ceremonies, and celebrations with traditional music and dance. Their communities emphasize strong family bonds and mutual support.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kusiari people practice Hinduism, worshiping various deities and observing numerous religious rituals and festivals such as Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and Diwali. Their belief system emphasizes values like dharma (duty), karma (actions and consequences), and ahimsa (non-violence). They honor their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies.

What Are Their Needs?

The Kusiari people need better access to quality education to provide more opportunities for their children. Improved healthcare services are essential due to 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 Kusiari community. Addressing these needs will help the Kusiari people achieve greater socio-economic stability.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Kusiari people teachable and understanding hearts.
Pray that a strong movement of the Holy Spirit will bring entire Kusiari families into a rich experience of God’s blessing.
Pray for Kusiari 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 Kusiari family leaders to experience God’s blessing through a movement of family-based discovery Bible studies.

Text Source:   Joshua Project