Introduction / History

The Mahyavanshi people are found in many parts of India but are mainly located in South Gujarat and north Maharashtra. A smaller number are in Pakistan. The Mahyavanshi were originally residents south Gujarat, but upper castes took their land and persecuted them. Many of the Mahyavanshi went to Mumbai to work for the British as butlers, cooks, drivers, etc. Now the Mahyavanshi community is well educated by self-development and with the help of government.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Now the Mahyavanshi community is well educated by self-development and with the help of government. As one of the low status communities, they have a certain number of jobs reserved for them in government offices. They are a diligent people who have a high literacy rate, two factors that make them desirable employees.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most of their practices are animistic, though they call themselves Hindu. Like many Hindu communities in the materialistic city of Mumbai, the Mahyavanshis have a special devotion to Ganesh, the Hindu god whom they believe helps them overcome obstacles and achieve prosperity. They are proud to be Hindu and have not changed their religion.

What Are Their Needs?

With few if any Christ followers among them, the Mahyavanshi people are at risk of never hearing the gospel. They are at the mercy of spirits that want to use and abuse them.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Holy Spirit will soften hearts as Christian workers use the JESUS Film, gospel cassettes and Christian radio to reach them, showing them Jesus, the only one who can give true prosperity in this life and the life to come.
Pray that God will use Mahyavanshi people to lead other low status groups to the savior.

Scripture Prayers for the Mahyavanshi in India.

References

Hasmukh Barot