Introduction / History

The Bavcha people were a warrior people who arrived with the leader of the Maratha empire in 1757. Today they are mostly found in Gujarat, Karnataka and Maharashtra, states of west and south India. Their main language is Gujarati.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today the Bavcha are a small population of people living and struggling for status and identity. Life is a daily struggle for most of their families. They do not own land or have the necessary job skills and education to succeed in modern India. They take low paying jobs than other Hindus will not take.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bavcha practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Their brand of Hinduism is influenced by folk religion. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain "moksha" or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Bavcha 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 as Christians do. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs. The main yearly holidays of the Bavcha people are 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. The caste system divides Hindus into four main categories. The lowest communities are outside of the caste system.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bavchas struggle to provide for their families. They lack housing and a regular supply of food. They do not possess land and property to call their own. Most of all the Bavcha need to hear and understand the good news of Jesus Christ. He alone can forgive their sins and give them a new hope for a better life.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual desire that will give the Bavcha people an openness to receive the gospel. Pray for a disciple making movement that will bless the Bavcha people this decade. Pray for the Lord to send out workers to the Bavcha people to tell them about Jesus. Ask God to provide for the physical and spiritual needs of this people.

Scripture Prayers for the Bavcha in India.