Yadav (Hindu traditions) in Bhutan

Introduction / History

The Yadav appear to have been one of the immigrant tribes from Central Asia. They are spoken of as robbers and foreigners. They claim connection to god Krishna since he was a herdsman. The most common name is Yadav or Yadava.

It's easy to find out who a Yadav is. Just ask them their name and they will tell you their first name followed by their title what is always Yadav.

The Yadav are a caste comprising of milkmen, cowherds, cattle raising and laborers. Their traditional occupation is animal husbandry and selling its products. The Yadav consist of both landowning and landless people. Some Yadav are businessmen, teachers, doctors, engineers and political leaders. Especially in the last three decennia they have become politically powerful in the states Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. They are very influential and are a major challenge to the political supremacy of the Brahmans.

Where Are they Located?

Most live all over India and in southern Nepal, but a small number live in Bhutan. The highest concentration is in India's states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, but also in east, west and south India there are many Yadavs.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Yadav people live in joint families. Most of them are vegetarian but many start eating fish, mutton, chicken and sometimes pork, but not beef. Child labor is common among them.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Yadavs participate in the local traditional and socio-religious festivals. They have expertise in oral traditions and group singing in praise of the god Vishnu, Krishna or one of the many other gods that they worship. Similarly, they are good in musical dance, wrestling and mock-fighting with swords. Boys are favored for formal education. They are known to have more faith in astrology and talismans rather than in the services of a doctor. They often pray to Singaji for the protection of their cattle from disease and often give thank offerings of butter, unripe mangoes and sugar.

What Are Their Needs?

They are in need to hear about the way of salvation. Most of the Yadav die never hearing the name of Jesus once in a lifetime!

Life, lifestyle and living standard are changing all over the world. The next generation will need to get other kinds of jobs. To get those jobs they need education but proper education is missing in many places (especially in the villages)

Prayer Points

Yadavs in Bhutan are in need to hear about the way of salvation. Most of the Yadav die never hearing the name of Jesus once in a lifetime!
Pray that Christ's ambassadors will go to the Yadavs with the life-changing gospel.
Pray for Yadav leaders to embrace Jesus Christ, and begin to disciple others in his ways.

Text Source:   Keith Carey