Introduction / History

Tawaifs are courtesans, high class prostitutes who are also artistic performers. Hindu Tawaifs are far better known than their Muslim Pakistani counterparts. Tawaifs either live in India's Uttar Pradesh state or Pakistan's Punjab and Sindh Provinces.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Tawaifs have their own culture which involves music and dance. People have wavered for many years between viewing them in negative terms, even as non-humans, and honoring their cultural achievements.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Like any Muslim, the Tawaif believe in Allah as the all-sovereign God who spoke to Mohammed leading to the Koran, which is their holy book. Typically, Muslims in South Asia hold other beliefs that seem almost Hindu.

What Are Their Needs?

The Tawaifs need to find their worth in the Savior, Jesus Christ. Some need help with job training so they can earn a better living.

Prayer Points

Pray for Holy Spirit driven workers to go to the Muslim Tawaifs until there they have their own church planting movement. Pray for them to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find the only Savior. Pray for the Lord to speak to the hearts of Tawaif community leaders, giving them reason to open the doors for the gospel.

Scripture Prayers for the Tawaif (Muslim traditions) in India.

References

https://www.dailyo.in/arts/tawaifs-courtesans-women-balakhanas-kothas-nautch-girls-awadh-prostitutes/story/1/21698.html
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/spotlight/an-ode-to-the-tawaifs-of-bollywood/articleshow/74597968.cms
https://thewire.in/books/tawaifnama-saba-dewans-radical-proposition-that-courtesans-are-people