Introduction / History

The Barwar historically were a community associated with marauding and plunder. The British colonial authorities made various attempts to suppress this destructive behavior. The British colonialists called them criminals under the Criminal Tribes Act. With the departure of the British, the community lost even more prestige. The Barwar now have scheduled caste status. The community is said to have originated in the Saran district of Bihar. They were expelled from Saran by the local Raja (petty king) and settled in the Awadh region. The Raja of Bast, in Awadh then expelled them again, as they continued their marauding activities nearby. They have three subdivisions, the Sawang, Gulam and Tilam. The Sawang group considers itself to be of pure Barwar origin, while the other two groupings are descendants of individuals kidnapped by the Sawang.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Barwars are no longer marauding criminals. Today this community calls themselves Rajputs which indicates high status. However, their status is not always that high in the eyes of their neighbors.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Barwar Rajputs 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.

What Are Their Needs?

The Barwar people need to submit to Jesus Christ so they can experience the abundant life He offers them in John 10:10.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Barwar people will have a spiritual hunger that will open their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for workers who are driven by the love and boldness of the Holy Spirit to go to them.
Pray for a Disciple Making Movement among them to begin this decade.

Scripture Prayers for the Rajput Barwar in India.