Bansphor (Hindu traditions) in India

The Bansphors derive their name from the words "bans," meaning bamboo, and "phor" or "phorna," meaning to split. Their traditional occupation has been to make various bamboo articles, but today many are engaged in other occupations. Because of their low social status, they are not allowed to worship in the village or local temples; however, the village temple priest performs prayers (puja) on their behalf. They worship regional deities as well as deities of the wider pantheon, such as Vaishno Devi, Jwalaji, and others. A Brahmin priest performs their birth, marriage, and death rites.

Ministry Obstacles
North India has not been receptive to the Christian gospel. The Bansphors see few, if any, Christ followers.

Scripture Focus
"Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen."  Revelation 1:7

Scripture Prayer
Pray for this people group to rejoice at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Focus
Pray this caste will be able to escape the stigma of being in the lowest category and will experience the freedom that comes from being followers of Christ. Pray for them to put their identity in Christ, and to realize that they matter in the eyes of the Living God. Pray for them to give Jesus Christ all their devotion, reserving nothing for false gods. Pray that soon Bansphor disciples will disciple others.

Presented by Joshua Project
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