Kachchia refers to "vegetable-growers" in the Gujarati language. All the male members suffix the term Patel to their names. There are several divisions among them based on economic levels or landholdings.
Though most live in western Indian, some are further west in Pakistan.
Widow remarriage, preferably with the deceased husband's younger brother, or within the village, takes place with the approval of the caste council. Divorce is permitted, though it rarely occurs.
The Kachhia people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.
Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.
People raised in Hinduism will likely find it difficult to comprehend the gospel when if first comes to them, because of how different it is from all they have ever known.
Pray for those Kachhia who will soon come to Jesus as savior and lord, that they will live in harmony with each other, not proud, zealous to know and walk with the Lord.
Pray for good crop yields for the Kacchia, and for rising educational levels.
Pray for good schools, and that parents will understand the importance of sending their children to school.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead their families to the foot of the cross.
Scripture Prayers for the Kachhia (Hindu traditions) in Pakistan.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
