Introduction / History
It seems that every class of people has been despised and discriminated against at some time, and the Chamar Muslims are no exception. Being a minority religious group in a primarily Hindu country, Muslim Chamars know what discrimination feels like. Their name derives from Chamakara, meaning "a worker in leather." In South Asia people say the Chamars, be they Hindu or Muslim, are criminally minded and unintelligent. Such beliefs should be expected regarding those who process leather in a land where Hinduism teaches people to venerate cattle.

Where are they located?
Most Chamar Muslims make their homes in the area of Janakpur in the southern part of Nepal, not far from the Indian border. This is a rugged, mountainous area that requires great vigor and endurance.

What are their lives like?
Muslim Chamar women are known for their beauty. Many of them work as midwives. Chamars seek marriage partners from outside their own clan, but within their own community. Adult marriage is the norm among Muslim Chamars. They do not have child brides.

Prayer Points
* Pray that the Church will begin reaching out to the Chamar Muslims in Nepal and India.
* Pray that the Chamar Muslims themselves will not be "biased" against the claims of Christ, but will thoughtfully consider what He said in His Word.
* Pray for a major people movement to Jesus within Chamar communities.