Valmiki Mehtar in India

Introduction / History

The word Mehtar means prince or leader. The Mehtar are a Scheduled Caste. Their traditional work is scavenging and sweeping.

In Andhra Pradesh the Mehtar speak Hindi and Telugu. In Karnataka the Mehtar speak Hindi and Kannada. In Bihar they speak Hindi and Angika.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many are still sweepers or scavengers, two of the least prestigious occupations in the Hindu world. Some of them work for the government. Though their education level is improving, it is still low.

What Are Their Beliefs?

These 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?

When there are few if any Christ followers within a community, it is very difficult for gospel workers. Ideally, they will win family and clan leaders to Christ who can open the door for others. If they only win individuals, these people are regarded as rebels and rejected by their community.

Prayer Points

Pray for spiritual discernment and a hunger for truth that will lead them to Jesus. Pray for workers to go to them. Pray for a powerful Disciple Making Movement among this community. Pray that gospel recordings would lead them to salvation.

Text Source:   Joshua Project