The Gadaria people were traditionally livestock breeders. They have two subgroups, the Dhangar and Nikhar. In the early 20th Century, they tried to appear to be higher on the caste pecking order by publishing two magazines and adding Kshatriya to their caste name. Now they are considered "Other Backward Castes," meaning they do not have either high or low status among Hindu communities. The vast majority live in India, but there are smaller populations of them in Bangladesh and Nepal.
Gaderias have virtually abandoned their traditional occupation of rearing sheep and goats. They are now mainly engaged as laborers in masonry work, while some are involved in animal husbandry.
Hindu Brahmins are engaged in performing at birth, marriage, and death rites, and for imparting religious teachings. As far as we know, they are all Hindus.
Low literacy rates can be an obstacle to the gospel, but not necessarily. If oral means of communication are effectively used, individuals can readily understand. Christian workers need to carry the message of Christ to the Gadaria community using stories from Scripture, as well as gospel recordings and films.
Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Gadaria people.Pray for a movement of Gadaria households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Gadaria people to the arms of Jesus.Pray for workers who are filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit to go to the Gadaria people.
Scripture Prayers for the Gadaria (Hindu traditions) in Nepal.
Profile Source: Joshua Project |