Introduction / History

The Ilavan are also known as Izhava or Ezhavas.
A caste association was established in the group in 1903. It was named after Narayana Guru. He established an ashram where he proclaimed his message of "one caste, one religion, one god".
Most of the Ilavan live in the Indian state of Kerala. Today, some of them have decided to migrate to other major cities in India, such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and some others have decided to migrate to the Arab states of the Gulf. A few of the Ilavan have decided to live in the West. There is also a Ilavan community in Sri Lanka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of the Ilavan in India are either farmers or toddy tappers. They grow coconut, palm trees and sugar cane. They extract sap from their trees to make an alcoholic beverage. Some have become builders, chauffeurs, handymen, lorry drivers and taxi drivers. Others are businessmen, teachers or lecturers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most of the Ilavan are Hindus, although some have been Christian since the early 20th century. As low-caste Hindus, they believe that all religions lead to the same path.

Prayer Points

Pray for Ilavan people to listen to the voice of the Lord and heed his call to discipleship.
Pray for Ilavan disciples who will make more disciples.
Pray for dedicated workers to take Christ to the Ilavan people of India and Sri Lanka.
Pray for Ilavan family leaders to understand the difference between the ways of Christ and Hinduism.

Scripture Prayers for the Ilavan in India.

References

http://gurunarayana.blogspot.in/2010/03/zhava_13.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ezhava