Vadugan in India

Introduction / History

The Kapu Vadugan or Kammas are a Telugu speaking agricultural caste of south India. In the Middle Ages they served as governors and military officers for the Hindu dynasties of south India. In modern times they are a landowner peasant group of the fourth worker caste of Hinduism. Most Vadugan migrated south from Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu. Their primary occupations are landowning and farming. The Vadugan kept their language of Telugu in regions where most people speak Tamil. Parents see education as a priority and many Vadugan have graduated from universities and have professional careers. Many Kapu have entered politics and government service where they serve as administrators and public servants.
Many Christian resources are available in Telugu including a complete Bible and the JESUS Film.

Where Are they Located?

The Kapu Vadugan people live in the southern tip of India in Tamil Nadu and Kerala states.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The lifestyle of a Vadugan depends upon his or her level of education and place of residence. Urban Vadugan hold high positions in government, universities, the military and businesses. The Vadugan are some of the most politically active castes in south India. Less educated, rural Vadugan own farmland that is often worked by others.

Vadugan marry within their group but not within their particular clan. Families arrange marriages with the consent of the young people. Sons inherit property from their parents. Newly married couples used to live with or near the grooms' parents. But now urban Vadugan live where they can find employment.

The Kapu are not vegetarians but as Hindus will not eat beef.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Vadugan practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They pay special devotion to Shiva, the destroyer god. 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 Vadugan 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 many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

The main yearly holidays of the Kapu 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.

What Are Their Needs?

The Vadugan need to realize that power and wealth will not bring them the joy and peace they seek. Jesus Christ alone can forgive their sins and get them right with the one, true God.

Prayer Points

Pray that persons and households of peace will be found among the Vadugan people who will catalyze movements to Jesus among their own people.
Pray the Lord will start a movement of Vadugan families experiencing God's blessings.
Pray for workers needed to sow God's Word into Vadugan families, healing and strengthening their households with God's blessings.

Text Source:   Keith Carey