Rajput (Hindu traditions) in Bangladesh

Introduction / History

The Kshatriya Raju or Rajput are a landowning caste who live primarily in North India and Bangladesh. They claim to be descendants of princes and army officers who served the various empires and dynasties of North India. For their military service, the Rajputs received land. As educated Indians the Raju speak multiple languages including Bengali, Hindi-Urdu, English and other local languages. Complete Bibles and many other resources are available in Hindi and Bengali.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Raju work as business owners, government administrators, in law enforcement, and as members of the Bangladeshi Armed Forces. They still own tracks of land that is frequently cultivated by lower castes. Parents encourage their sons and daughters to graduate from universities and to enter into professions. Families arrange marriages with the consent of the adult young people. Cousin marriages are common. Marriage to one spouse is the norm. Sons inherit the property of their father. The eldest son takes charge of the family. Brahmin priests officiate at important families ceremonies such as births, weddings and funerals. The Raju cremate their death and scatter the ashes in holy rivers. The Raju are not vegetarian but will not eat beef and sometimes pork.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Raju practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of the Indian subcontinent. They are proud of their Hindu heritage which goes back thousands of years. The Raju 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 Raju 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 Raju 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 Raju fall in the second highest caste of Hinduism, the Kshatriya, the sons of kings.

What Are Their Needs?

The Raju need to hear and understand the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He is their hope and the only one who can forgive their sins.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Lord humbles the Raju and they see their need for a Savior who only can forgive their sins. Pray the Lord will start a movement of Raju families experiencing God's blessings. Pray for workers to sow God's Word into Raju families, healing and strengthening households with God's blessings.

Text Source:   Keith Carey