Introduction / History

The Vellala or Vellalar live in India and Sri Lanka. In Sri Lanka they are one of the Tamil speaking communityies. They migrated from Tamil Nadu, India to Sri Lanka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Vellalan are landlords and work in agriculture. They work in agriculture in rural regions and in business in urban ones.
They are endogamous, meaning they prefer marriage with a member of their group. They favor cross-cousin marriages. Marriages are arranged at the home of the bridegroom. Widowers can marry again but not widows and divorcees. Weddings take place at the home of the bride.
The oldest son takes charge of the family estate when the patriarch dies.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The vast majority of Vellalan are Hindus. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Many follow a branch of Hinduism called Saiva Siddhantam. In this Hindu order adherents desire to be enlightened by Lord Shiva or Siva, one of the three main gods of Hinduism. Some Vellalan join monasteries and propagate the teachings of Shiva.

What Are Their Needs?

Though the Vellalan people are doing well financially, they suffer spiritually. Few if any have a relationship with the only one who can provide them with abundant life.

Prayer Points

Pray that God will give the Vellalan dreams and visions bringing them to salvation.
Pray that gospel materials will become easily available and widely used.
Pray for loving and committed gospel workers to go to them.

Scripture Prayers for the Vellalan in Sri Lanka.

References

Singh, K. S., ed. “India's Communities A-Z”, Oxford University Press, USA 1999