Ilavan   ee-LAH-van

The Ilavan are also known as Izhava or Ezhavas. They live primarily in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. A smaller population lives in Sri Lanka. They work primarily as farmers and toddy-tappers. This means they extract sap from palms such as coconut and palmyra to make an alcoholic beverage. They grow coconut, palm, and sugarcane. Some Ilavan have become builders, chauffeurs, handymen, truck drivers, and taxi drivers. Some have chosen careers as businessmen, teachers, or lecturers. A caste association was established for the Ilavan community in 1903. It was named after Narayana Guru, who established an ashram where he proclaimed his message of one caste, one religion, one god.

Ministry Obstacles

Most Ilavan believe that all religions lead to the same path. They need to experience the uniqueness and holiness of Jesus Christ.

Scripture Focus

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty."  Psalm 91:1

Scripture Prayer

Pray for many from today’s people group to find rest in their relationship with the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead Ilavan elders to the cross. Pray that loving and dedicated workers will go to the Ilavan. Pray for Ilavan disciples who will make more disciples. Pray for the Holy Spirit to do miracles among them, convincing many that Christ is King of kings.