Rajput (Hindu traditions) in Pakistan

Introduction / History

The Kshatriya Raju or Rajput are a landowning caste who live primarily in northern India and Pakistan. They claim to be descendants of princes and army officers who served the various empires and dynasties of North India. For their military service, the Rajput received land. As educated Pakistani the Rajput speak multiple languages including Sindhi, Hindi-Urdu, English and other local languages. Complete Bibles and many other resources are available in Hindi-Urdu and Sindhi.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Rajputs work as business owners, government administrators in law enforcement and as officers of the Pakistani Armed Forces. They still own tracks of land that is frequently cultivated by lower castes. Parents encourage their sons and daughters to graduate from universities and to enter into professions. Families arrange marriages with the consent of the adult young people. Cousin marriages are common. Marriage to one spouse is the norm. Sons inherit the property of their father. The eldest son takes charge of the family. Brahmin priests officiate at important family ceremonies such as births, weddings and funerals. The Rajput cremate their death and scatter the ashes in holy rivers. The Rajput are not vegetarians but will not eat beef and often pork.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Rajputs practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of the Indian subcontinent. They are proud of their Hindu heritage which goes back thousands of years. The Rajput worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain moksha or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Rajputs 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 as Christians do. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs. The main yearly holidays of the Rajput people are 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?

Hindu Rajputs need to hear and understand the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He is their hope and the only one who can forgive their sins.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Lord humbles the Rajputs and they see their need for a savior who alone can forgive their sins. Pray the Lord will start a movement of Rajput families experiencing God's blessings. Pray for workers to sow God's word into Rajput families, healing and strengthening households with God's blessings. Pray that God starts and sustains a Discipleship Making Movement among this influential group of people.

Text Source:   Joshua Project