Kharot in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Kharot |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 1,800 |
| World Population: | 1,800 |
| Primary Language: | Hindi |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Dalit - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Kharot comes from the word Khata which means grass and Kharot means a manufacturer of grass mats which was their occupation. They are an offshoot of the traditionally nomadic Beldar caste. The Kharots are a scheduled caste which gives them low to middle status. They are found mainly in Uttar Pradesh especially the Basti district.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Most are landless and work as day laborers in agriculture.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Kharot people 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 Kharot people need to experience the life-giving Bread of Life, Jesus Christ.
Prayer Points
Pray that Indian believers will help them begin their own disciple making movement. Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead them to Jesus Christ. Pray for intercessors and workers.