South Asian, Telugu-speaking in New Zealand

South Asian, Telugu-speaking
Photo Source:  Copyrighted © 2024
Kerry Olson  All rights reserved.  Used with permission
Send Joshua Project a map of this people group.
People Name: South Asian, Telugu-speaking
Country: New Zealand
10/40 Window: No
Population: 5,200
World Population: 1,174,700
Primary Language: Telugu
Primary Religion: Hinduism
Christian Adherents: 3.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.60 %
Scripture: Complete Bible
Online Audio NT: 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 can make even more money by going to New Zealand.

Where Are they Located?

Most likely, Telegu speakers are in urban centers like Auckland and Christchurch.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Telegu speakers in New Zealand have their own association, started in 1998. There is a matrimonial site for Telegu speakers to meet those who have migrated to New Zealand. Many of the Telegu speakers have gone to New Zealand to earn a good living as software engineers, doctors or businessmen. India has excellent tech universities, and their graduates have found that they can earn more by going to the West for work. Most of them settle in their new countries, though some return to 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. The Telegu speakers in New Zealand are very interested in Hindu temples and shrines.

What Are Their Needs?

Telegu speakers in New Zealand need spiritual discernment and hunger so they can find the Savior.

Prayer Points

Pray for Telegu speaking believers to have so much joy, peace, love, and patience that their 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 in New Zealand.

Text Source:   Keith Carey