Introduction / History

What Indian caste is not really a caste at all? They are the Kahari people, who are part of an ancient community in northern India.

Where Are they Located?

Three quarters of the more than 80,000 Kaharis live in Punjab, and their primary language is Eastern Panjabi.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The people group was traditionally associated with water. They cultivated farms with a liberal amount of water, dug wells, grew water nuts, captured waterfowls, and were notable boatmen and fisherman.

With the last century's modernization, these water-related roles have dwindled. Their occupations have become more diversified, inspiring 15 sub-castes to break off from them. Considered "backward," they became parcel carriers, house servants, and stone-cutters. In village settings, they are now landless agricultural laborers. In the city where many have emigrated, they are wage laborers.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kaharis are divided into Hindu, Muslim, and Sikhs communities. The Sikhs among them converted from Hinduism long ago. The Kahari Sikhs are considered to be among the least reached people groups; few if any follow Jesus Christ. Biblical resources are available to them though! In 2002, a complete Bible translation was finished in Eastern Panjabi. Christian teaching is available in audio, video, film and printed formats. Now they need to respond to these resources by forming fellowships of Christ followers.

Prayer Points

Pray that one day soon the Kaharis will lead other castes to drink the Living Water.

Scripture Prayers for the Kahar (Sikh traditions) in India.