Introduction / History

The Goudu are a scheduled tribe who live in Andhra Pradesh near Odisha. They speak Odia and have low status.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many of them are semi nomads who raise cattle. They are not vegetarians and eat rice as a staple food. Women help with agriculture and housework. Some have other trades such as tailoring. They have a council to protect their interests.

The Goudu have a low literacy level, so the gospel will need to be given in oral form rather than with written materials. They use traditional and modern medicines.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Goudu 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 Goudu people need the spiritual "prosperity" that only Jesus Christ can offer a community.

Prayer Points

Pray that Goudu council leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead others to him.
Pray that gospel recordings lead them to salvation.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to stir Goudu hearts to accept the King of kings.
Pray for loving ambassadors of Christ to go to them until they have a disciple making movement.

Scripture Prayers for the Goudu in India.

References

Singh, K. S., ed. "India's Communities A-Z", Oxford University Press, USA 1999