Starting in the 5th century, there was a massive attack by the White Huns in what is now northern and northwestern India and Pakistan. About a century later the reigning Hindu-based Gupta Empire broke up, leaving the Subcontinent vulnerable to Muslim invaders from the north. As time went on, invaders took over land and integrated with the settled peoples of this region. Tribal leaders, especially those involved with defense, were accepted as Kshatrya, the second highest varna (major type of castes) in Hindu society, while their followers became the fourth and lowest varna. Priests became the Brahmins, the highest of the four varnas.
The Rajputs, who were part of the Kshatrya varna, became politically important in the seventh century. From around 800 Rajput dynasties ruled northern India. Petty Rajput kingdoms were the main obstacle for Muslim domination of the Hindu subcontinent. For hundreds of years Rajputs were the warriors who defended kingdoms from invaders and conquered others. When possible, Rajputs settled down, became nobles, and enjoyed the lives of landed gentry.
Over a period of a couple hundred years, invaders penetrated the Rajput wall that protected the Subcontinent. Some Rajput subgroups converted to Islam during this time. The British Empire put an end to the Moghul Empire, but they recruited Rajputs into their military units. The Rajputs have kept alive their proud history of conquest, bravery, and military might.
Muslim Pundir Rajputs are based in India's state of Uttar Pradesh, but some live in Pakistan.
Though many Pundir Rajputs are still in the armed forces or own land, many have moved on to other livelihoods. Rajputs who aren't so fortunate work as small businessmen or wage laborers. They try to marry their daughters into clans of higher rank than their own. Unfortunately, Rajputs often marry their daughters off while they are very young.
Though all Pundir Rajputs were once Hindu, some converted to Islam starting in the early 12th century. Sufi Muslim missionaries were instrumental in winning these Hindus to Islam, though others converted to Islam for political reasons. Conversion to Islam continued into the 19th century when the British were gaining power in the Subcontinent. It is important to note that conversions happen at the group level; entire Rajput clans converted to Islam, not individuals. Those who want to see Rajputs won to Jesus Christ should remember this.
Pundir Rajputs who have embraced Islam usually retain common social practices such as having their wives secluded (purdah). Those who are devout do their five daily ritual prayers, give alms to the poor, and go on the pilgrimage (haj) to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Muslims from all communities come together on Friday afternoons to pray and hear a sermon at local mosques.
Rajputs are admired in South Asia for the historical and military accomplishments. Pride in past accomplishments and a strong ethnic identity can keep Pundir Rajputs in Pakistan from recognizing their need for a Savior.
Pray the Lord will give Pundir Rajput leaders a spiritual hunger, then satisfy that hunger.
Pray that these people will understand the value of becoming part of God's royal family and that they will do anything to enter that Kingdom.
Pray for a Holy Spirit led humility for all Rajput communities to fall at the feet of the King of kings.
Pray for a disciple making movement among every Rajput community.
Pray for Pundir Rajput families to accept the abundant blessings and guidance offered only by Jesus Christ.
Scripture Prayers for the Rajput Pundir (Muslim traditions) in Pakistan.
https://joshuaproject.net/unreached/4
https://joshuaproject.net/index.php/people_groups/17928/IN
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Rajput_clans
http://induhistory.blogspot.com/p/rajput-history.html
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Rajput
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajput
http://allrajputyouthwing.weebly.com/muslim-rajputs-history.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pundir
http://www.indianrajputs.com/history/pundir.php
| Profile Source: Keith Carey |
