Karadia in India

Introduction / History

The Karadia claim to be a Rajput community. Though their originated in Rajasthan, they now live in Gujarat, just to the south of Rajasthan.

Their name comes from the days of the Muslim invasions of India. They were a Hindu community who agreed to pay taxes to the new rulers.

Where Are they Located?

The Karadia people live in Gujarat, a state in western India. Specifically, they live in the Gujarati districts of Saurashtra and Kutch.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though they consider themselves to be Rajputs, a community with high status, the Karadias are given "Other Backward caste" status, which is lower than that of the Rajputs. Their daily lives are governed by the requirements of their Hindu religion, and their fearful worship of Hindu gods.

What Are Their Beliefs?

These Hindus are devotees of Shiva, one of the most well-known and worshiped Hindu deities. Karadia people worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain moksha or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. 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 many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

The Karadia, whether they are Rajput or not, need to put their identity in the King of kings and Lord of lords rather than in their past accomplishments. They need to cling to the only Savior who loves them infinitely and gave his life in their place to pay the penalty for all their sins. Although audio, visual and written Bible resources are available in Gujarati, their spoken language, they remain unreached and unengaged with the truth of the gospel.

Prayer Points

Pray for gospel workers to catch a vision for reaching the Karadias people for Jesus and that in God's sovereign timing their hearts would be open and ready to follow Him.
Pray for Jesus movements to bless extended families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Karadia people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.
Pray for the lives and culture of the Karadia people to evidence the rule and reign of the Kingdom of God as they open to the gospel, and for the beauty of Jesus to be seen in them.

Text Source:   Keith Carey