Yadav Rawat in India

Introduction / History

The Rawat Yadavs of India claim that they are descended from the Hindu god Krishna. The Rawat are one of the subgroups of the larger Yadav peoples. Most Rawat live in central and east India. Since the Rawat have traditionally dealt with cattle and dairy products, it gives them good status in the land where cows are considered holy. As devout Hindus, the Rawat do not eat or sell beef.

The main language of the Rawat is Hindi. They also speak the local language where they live. Many resources are available I Hindi including a complete Bible, the JESUS Film and radio programs. There are few if any Rawat believers.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some Rawat still work in their ancient job of taking care of cattle. Many others also work in agriculture growing wheat, lentils, rice and other crops. Some Rawat Yadav are college educated and work in medicine, science, politics, trade, and business. They are often a dominant people in their areas where they live especially the state of Bihar.

The Rawat marry within the Yadav community. Marriage to one spouse is the norm. Sons inherit their father's property. Brahmin priests officiate at important life ceremonies such as births, weddings and funerals. The oldest son becomes the leader of the family. It is the sons' responsibility to care form elderly relatives. Most Rawat encourage their children to earn college educations. Some rural Rawat young people are moving to Indian cities in search of a better life.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Rawat Yadav 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 do. 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?

Most Rawat live in parts of India where the church is small. This Yadav subgroup is concentrated in Bihar, though not limited to this state. The Rawat need to understand that Jesus is not just another Hindu god or guru. He is the savior and lord of the earth. He alone can forgive their sins and grant them eternal life.

Prayer Points

Pray that soon the Holy Spirit will move among Rawat Yadav leaders and draw them into a relationship with him.

Pray for Indian believers to love and serve the Rawat.

Ask the Lord to send workers to the Rawat.

Pray for God's grace and truth to expand into the entire Rawat Yadav society.

Text Source:   Joshua Project