Teli Sahu in India

Introduction / History

The word sahu is related to a word for moneylender. The Sahu of Madhya Pradesh are vegetarians, indicating high status as Hindus. They speak Hindi and read and write in Devanagari.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of the Sahu own land and they work mainly in agriculture. There are professional among them such as doctors and engineers. They believe in education and use modern medicines. The Sahu of Delhi are mostly self-employed in the confectionery business and in transport. Divorcees and the bereaved can marry again. On the death of the father, the oldest son takes charge of the family estate. They have a council to look after their interests.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sahu 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. Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like 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 Sahu Teli people need to accept and embrace the abundant life offered only by Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray that the council leaders come to Jesus and lead their community to consider the claims of Christ. Pray that Indian believers will faithfully pray for and go to the Sahu people until they have a movement to Christ. Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the blessings of Jesus.

Text Source:   Keith Carey