Introduction / History

The Valmiki are a scheduled tribe in Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. They speak, read and write in Telugu. The Valmiki are classed as low class by neighbors.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They work mainly in agriculture with some of them collecting forest products as well. The Valmiki are monogamous. They allow for divorce and remarriage. Valmiki women help with financial and social matters. They use both modern and traditional medicines. They have a low literacy level so the gospel will need to be given in oral forms.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Valmiki are Hindus but have traditional beliefs as well. Since Hinduism is a flexible religion, this is common with many ethnic groups in South Asia.

What Are Their Needs?

The Valmiki peoples need to allow the Holy Spirit to transform their families and communities into the likeness of Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Valmiki will put their identity in Christ, the one who gives them dignity and worth.
Pray that Indian Christians will lead them into a disciple making movement.
Pray that gospel recordings will lead them to salvation.
Pray for spiritual hunger and discernment among the Valmiki peoples.

Scripture Prayers for the Valmiki tribal in India.

References

Singh, K. S., ed. "India's Communities A-Z", Oxford University Press, USA 1999
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valmiki_caste