Introduction / History

The word vala means tall fishing net since they are one of the traditional fishing castes. They believe they were brought to Kerala as boatmen. In the earlier days of their community they were not only fishermen but also landed farmers or medical doctors. The Valan live in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. They speak, read and write in Malayalam, the language of Kerala.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Valan work in fishing, farming and small business. They have a caste council to look after their interests. They try to make sure their children have an education. They allow for divorce and remarriage. Unlike most Hindu peoples, they bury their dead. Property goes to the sons with the oldest son taking charge of the family estate upon the death of the father.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Hinduism is their religion. They have their own festivals. Spiritual beliefs of Hindus are very diverse from those who worship only one god to those who worship hundreds of them to those who are philosophical and do not worship any.

What Are Their Needs?

The Valan people need believers from other South Indian communities to share with them how to find the abundant life that only Jesus Christ offers to all nations.

Prayer Points

Pray that the caste council leaders will come to Jesus Christ and lead their entire community to consider the claims of the Lord. Pray for faithful intercessors and workers to go to them. Pray for them to prosper spiritually and give the God of heaven the glory.

Scripture Prayers for the Valan in India.