Gadaria (Hindu traditions) in Nepal

People Name:	Gadaria (Hindu traditions)
Country:	Nepal
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	9,300
World Population:	4,821,300
Primary Language:	Maithili
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	0.00 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	New Testament
Online Audio NT:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Hindu - other
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Gadaria people were traditionally livestock breeders. They have two subgroups, the Dhangar and Nikhar. In the early 20th Century, they tried to appear to be higher on the caste pecking order by publishing two magazines and adding Kshatriya to their caste name. Now they are considered "Other Backward Castes," meaning they do not have either high or low status among Hindu communities. The vast majority live in India, but there are smaller populations of them in Bangladesh and Nepal.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Gaderia have virtually abandoned their traditional occupation of rearing sheep and goats. They are now mainly engaged as laborers in masonry work, while some are involved in animal husbandry.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Brahmin are engaged for performing at birth, marriage and death rites and for imparting religious teachings.

Prayer Points

Low literacy rates can be an obstacle to the gospel, but not necessarily. If oral means of communication are effectively used, individuals can readily understand. Christian workers need to carry the message of Christ to the Gadaria community using stories from Scripture, as well as gospel recordings and films.