Introduction / History
The name Gawal (an alternate name for the Gual) is derived from the word gopala, meaning protector of cows. Although traditionally the Gual were involved in dairy-farming and cattle-raising, now many have diversified into other occupations. They mainly live in the state of Uttarackhand in northern India.

What are their lives like?
The Gual have their own community councils at the village level. Social boycotts, excommunication, cash fines, etc., are imposed on offenders as punishment for wrongdoing. They sing folksongs on ceremonial occasions. They cremate their dead and immerse the ashes in the Ganga River.

What are their beliefs?
The Gual 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?
Spiritual darkness is deep in Uttar Pradesh, the main home of the Gual people. Perhaps the youth of this community will discover the availability of gospel recordings and Christian videos in the Hindi language on the internet.

Prayer Points
Pray they will be prompted to listen and view and be given understanding.

Please pray for those in this people group who will one day come to be disciples of Jesus Christ. They will need the Bible.

Please pray for employment opportunities for the Gual people, and for clean water and adequate medical care.

Pray for loving workers.