Introduction / History

Desh means country and wali means lord. They are a Rajput community, so they were the warriors of old who settled down to enjoy landed estates at some point in their lives. The Deshwalis were known as "perfect" warriors. The Hindu Deshwali live in the central states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. The Muslims among them live further west in Rajasthan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of them still own land. Cultivation is their main work and they use modern farming methods. Since the Rajputs lost much of their wealth in the 1960s, some are now landless farmers or sharecroppers or petty businessmen. They have a community council to look after their interests. Unlike other Rajput peoples, the Deshwalis do not have a system of gotras or clans. The Deshwali are monogamous and they often marry their cousins. Family leaders arrange the marriages. They allow for divorce and remarriage.

What Are Their Beliefs?

There are Muslims and Hindus among the Deshwali people. Spiritual beliefs of Hindus are very diverse from those who worship only one god to those who worship hundreds of them to those who are philosophical and do not worship any.

What Are Their Needs?

The Deshwalis need the joy and peace that comes only from a relationship with Jesus Christ, the only Savior.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Deshwali will be attracted to Jesus, read the Bible and put all their faith in the sacrifice of the only Savior. Pray that the Deshwali council leaders will initiate a disciple making movement. Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers and intercessors for the Deshwali people.

Scripture Prayers for the Deshwali (Hindu traditions) in India.