Introduction / History

The Ayyarakam people are small population of Hindu people who are located in the southeastern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The primary languages of the Ayyarakam are Telegu and Odia. Many Christian resources are available in both languages. There are currently no known believers in this people.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Ayyarakam are landowners and landlords, often the heads of villages. Their caste leader is called Mandala Naidu. The Ayyarakam look after the welfare of their people. The Ayyarakam make their living through agriculture, animal husbandry, government service, and trade.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Ayyarakam practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They 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 Ayyarakam 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 Ayyarakam 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. The caste system divides Hindus into four main categories. The lowest communities are outside of the caste system. The patron gods of the Ayyarakam are Lord Sri Venkateswara, Lord Shiva, Sri Laxmi, and Sri Sakhti Ammavaru.

What Are Their Needs?

The Ayyarakam need help to obtain higher educations for their children. Many of them would benefit by learning new job skills. The Ayyarakam who live in rural villages need access to modern medicine. Most of all the Ayyarakam need to understand that Jesus is not just another Hindu god. He is the King of kings and Savior of the world. He alone can forgive their sins and grant them eternal life.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual hunger that will give the Ayyarakam people a willingness to investigate the claims of Jesus Christ. Pray for a disciple making movement among the Ayyarakam people this decade. Pray for the Lord to send out workers to the Ayyarakam people to tell them the good news of Jesus Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Ayyarakam in India.