Khangar (Hindu traditions) in India

Introduction / History

The Khangar community an ancient Kshatriya clan. The word Khangar means "sword bearer;" they have a long military tradition, and they were noted for their valor for centuries.

Khangar people are located in 10 states of India, with Madya Pradesh containing the highest concentration, especially in the Bundelkhand region. Khangar speak local dialects, Hindi, and write in Devanagari.

Their culture emphasizes honor, lineage, and Rajput martial training, making them one of the most distinguished clans of the region. Historical marginalization despite their immense contributions, Khangars were often excluded from mainstream historical narratives, especially in the lists of 36 Rajput clans. The rise of Bundela powers gradually overshadowed Khangar influence. Colonial and later historical accounts relied heavily on Bundela-centered chronicles, leading to underrepresentation of Khangars.

The Khangar community historically controlled Garhkundhar Fort, which served as a strategic administrative and military center. Their influence is also evident in place names, settlements, and local traditions.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, the main work of the Khangars is agriculture. In Madya Pradesh, weaving has been their primary work though many have turned to other things, such as selling cloth and cosmetics, manufacturing and tailor work. They usually make good profits from their work. Most Khangars own some land, but in Bihar they usually do not. In that state, they work as farm laborers, government workers, and construction laborers.

Khangars have political leaders at village level and traditional caste councils who deal with local civil and criminal matters. They are classed as a scheduled caste in some states of India and OBC in others.

Literacy is lower than the national average, particularly in Bihar where girls seldom attend school. They use modern medicine, and take advantage of development programs, except in Bihar.

They are non-vegetarian but do not eat beef because of their Hindu religion. They also eat wheat, rice, seasonal vegetables, milk products, and fruit.

Khangars marry partners from their own groups. Marriages are arranged by relatives. Adult marriages are the norm, but child marriages are common in Rajasthan.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Khangar people are mostly Hindu. They worship family, clan and regional gods and goddesses, and their ancestors. They bring in sorcerers and witchdoctors, whom they believe will expel evil spirits. They celebrate Hindu festivals.

What Are Their Needs?

Khangar people have many physical and spiritual needs. Better educational opportunities would enrich this community.

Central India remains a pioneer mission field. Outreach, response, and persecution are increasing in that part of India. Their greatest need is for the only Savior. Although many visual and audio Bible resources are available in the Hindi language, fear of community reprisals blocks their willingness to embrace Jesus Christ as the only way to reconciliation with the only God.

Prayer Points

Pray for their physical and spiritual needs to be met by our loving and all-powerful God.
Pray that Khangar people will be blessed by God's Holy Spirit and driven to the loving arms of Jesus Christ.
Pray that many will have such spiritual hunger that they will embrace Jesus Christ no matter what the cost.
Pray that soon, hundreds of Khangars will experience the abundant life that only Jesus can provide.

Text Source:   Joshua Project