Shenva (Hindu traditions) in India

People Name:	Shenva (Hindu traditions)
Country:	India
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	133,000
World Population:	134,700
Primary Language:	Gujarati
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	0.02 %
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:

Introduction / History

The Shenva, also known as Rawat, are a Scheduled Caste in the state of Gujarat, which entitles them to certain government benefits. The Shenva (Rawat) community consists of several exogamous clans. According to their tradition they believe they are descendants of Rajput who fled into the forests.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are mainly agricultural laborers and have their own land and homes. Others make and sell brooms and mats.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Shenva 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.

They worship Shree Chamunda Mataji, which are clan deities, on festivals and during life-cycle ceremonies.

What Are Their Needs?

They need to improve their vocational skills so they will be qualified for these better positions.

Prayer Points

Please pray for workers to come to the Hindu Shenva people, workers who are able to communicate well the good news about Jesus Christ. Pray for their encouragement and protection and provision.
A small number of the Shenva people have identified themselves as Christians to the Indian census. This is very encouraging. Please pray these Christians will be properly instructed in the ways of Christ and will live holy lives in the power of the Lord's Spirit.
Pray they will represent Christ well to their families and friends.
Pray the Lord will give these people understanding as the gospel comes to them.