Raddi in India

Introduction / History

The Raddi of India live mainly in Karnataka, but also in Maharashtra. They speak, read and write in Kannada, the language of Karnataka.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Raddi people are an influential and well-respected caste. They often serve as village headmen who collect taxes. Most are noted for being fair, even to poorer members of the village, but they still have their enemies. Disputes with various clans that date back hundreds of years have resulted in grudges that still continue today. They work in agriculture and most of them own land. They believe in education and have their own banks. They have political power in the state of Karnataka. The Raddi prefer marriages between cousins. The bride's family must pay a dowry. They don't allow for divorce, but they do allow for remarriage for widows and widowers. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property with the oldest son taking charge of the home.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Raddi people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They 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 like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

What Are Their Needs?

They need to accept and embrace the spiritual and social blessings that only a transformed life can offer. A relationship with Jesus Christ would provide them with life to the full.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Raddi who have power come to Jesus Christ and lead their people into a movement to Christ. Pray that gospel materials and internet materials become easily available to them.

Text Source:   Keith Carey