Beldar Mith Gauda in India

Introduction / History

he Beldar are a group of Hindu people who live in India, Bangladesh and Nepal. Their name Beldar means a person who digs in the ground. Thus, it is easy to understand that there are many in the Beldar caste who labor in excavating work. Because they do manual labor, they have low status in Indian society. The Beldar are part of the Sudras, the fourth level of Hindu caste system.

The main two languages of the Beldar peoples are Kannada and Hindi. However, one of their subgroups, the Mith Gauda, speak Goan Konkani. They live along the west coast of India, including Goa.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mith Gauda Beldar are employed in agricultural work and in construction. They are able to maintain relationships with members of other communities, sharing water sources and religious shrines. Mith Gauda Beldar marry within their caste. Marriage with paternal or maternal relatives is avoided. Sons inherit their father's property with the eldest son becoming the head of the family. Caste councils settle legal disputes and promote their interests. Many of the Beldar, especially their women, are unable to read or write.

The Beldar are not vegetarian but do not eat beef. The main foods are rice, wheat, millet, vegetables and fruit. Meat is often eaten only on special occasions due to the poverty of many Mith Gauda Beldar families.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The primary religion practiced by the Mith Gauda Beldar is Hinduism, the ancient religious tradition of India. Mith Gauda Beldar 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. Mith Gauda Beldar visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers and incense to their gods. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

The main yearly holidays of the Beldar are Holi, the festival of colors, Diwali, the festival of lights, Navratri, the celebration of autumn and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

Mith Gauda Beldar need help in learning new job skills. They need help in educating their children. Most of all, the Mith Gauda Beldar need to hear and understand the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. He alone can forgive their sins and give them new life.

Prayer Points

Pray for a chain reaction of Mith Gauda Beldar families reaching families that results in thousands of new believers who share their faith with others.
Pray that churches and believers will bless their entire people group in such a way that God's love will change them like yeast changes dough.

Text Source:   Joshua Project