Hajam in Nepal

Introduction / History

Hajams or Hajjams are also known as the Nai Muslims or Turuk Navid in India. There is a long-standing tradition of the Hajam being hair-cutters, barbers, and manicurists. The Hajams are found in nearly every part of India and most of Pakistan. In Nepal they can be found in almost any part of the Terai region.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Hajam remains a respected caste of hair-cutters (hajamat). In some areas, the Hajams are the owners of barber shops and salons. In the Muslim community, they can often be an active part of the community, as hair-trimming for major family events like weddings and funerals can involve them. Even minor ritual surgeries like circumcision can be conducted by some Hajam. In some communities, they can also be match-makers, and some women assist with childbirth.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though they are Sunni Muslims, married women will often be distinguished by a nose-stud and the "bindi" dot on the forehead. They are not vegetarians and will eat beef with their rice, wheat, or maize. In Nepal, they speak Nepali as well as Bhojpuri, Urdu, and Maithili.

What Are Their Needs?

There is a little to no ministry among the Hajams although they are a fairly large Muslim group in Nepal. Even though their community can be slow to adopt new medicine and technology this group remains a strategic people to reach with the Gospel as they have far-reaching connection into the Muslim community socially.

Prayer Points

Ask the Holy Spirit to supernaturally reveal Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life to the Hajams.Ask God to open their eyes, hearts, and ears to the good news of the Savior.Pray for the Lord to raise up the right people to disciple the Hajams in his ways.Pray for the Lord to demonstrate his power and goodness among them in a way they will understand.Ask for an intervention of the Holy Spirit in every Hajam family in Nepal.

Text Source:   Joshua Project