Introduction / History

The Bargi people claim descent from the Rajput warriors of old. They were once warriors and mercenaries, and they still have a fascination with the armed forces. Other communities would not give them as high status as they themselves claim. The Bargi were part of a calvary unit during the Maratha Empire (1674-1818).

They live in Rajasthan, a state where less than one in 1,000 is a follower of Christ.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Those who live in rural areas tend to be landowners who practice modern agricultural techniques, but most of them now live in cities.

Within a Bargi family, the wife gives her advice to the husband, but he makes the final decision. The Bargis name their children on the third day after birth. They perform the marriage rituals at the bride's house and the marriage is consummated at the groom's home. Both the bride and groom's families contribute and host the wedding feast.

The eldest son performs the death rites when a parent dies. This is done 12 days after the death, and it is followed by a funeral feast.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bargi people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bargi people need to accept the warm embrace of the only savior so they can enjoy spiritually meaningful lives.

Prayer Points

Pray for the authority of Christ to bind hindering spiritual forces to lead them from darkness to light.

Pray for signs and wonders among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.

Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.

Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.

Scripture Prayers for the Bargi in India.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bargi