The Magahi-speaking Hindu Sukiyar people live in the state of Jharkhand, India. Traditionally, the Sukiyar have been involved in agriculture, relying on the fertile lands of the region to sustain their livelihoods. Over time, the community has remained rooted in rural areas, though some have moved to urban centers in search of better economic opportunities. Despite these changes, agriculture remains central to the Sukiyar way of life.
The Sukiyar people primarily engage in farming, growing crops like rice, wheat and pulses. Farming is a family activity, with men, women and children working together to plant, tend and harvest crops. Many families also raise livestock, which provides supplementary income and food. In addition to agriculture, some members of the Sukiyar community work as laborers in nearby towns to support their families.
Sukiyar families live in small villages, where homes are typically built from local materials like mud, brick and thatch. Life in these villages revolves around agriculture, family responsibilities and religious observances. Although younger generations increasingly seek education and employment in cities, they often return to their villages during harvest seasons to help with farming.
The Sukiyar people follow Hinduism, worshiping deities such as Vishnu, Shiva and Durga. They observe important Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Holi and Navaratri, where families come together to celebrate, offer prayers and seek blessings for prosperity. The Sukiyar’s religious practices are closely tied to their agricultural activities, with many rituals centered around the planting and harvesting seasons.
Temples and shrines serve as important spiritual centers for the Sukiyar community, where religious ceremonies and festivals take place. Local religious leaders guide the community’s rituals, ensuring that traditions are passed down through the generations.
The Sukiyar people face several challenges related to economic development, education and healthcare. Traditional farming methods make them vulnerable to environmental changes, such as erratic rainfall and soil degradation. Access to modern agricultural techniques, improved irrigation systems and sustainable farming practices would help the Sukiyar community increase productivity and stabilize their livelihoods.
Education remains a significant need for the Sukiyar community, particularly in rural areas where schools are often under-resourced. Expanding access to quality education would open up opportunities for the younger generation to pursue a wider range of careers. Additionally, healthcare services are limited, with many families traveling long distances for basic medical care. Improving healthcare infrastructure and access to medical services would greatly benefit the community’s overall well-being.
Pray for the Sukiyar culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Sukiyar family and community leaders to seek his face and enjoy his blessings.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a movement to Christ among the Sukiyar people.
Pray that soon the Sukiyar people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the savior.
Scripture Prayers for the Sukiyar in India.
Ethnologue: Languages of the World
Reports from Indian NGOs on rural communities in Jharkhand
Academic research on agricultural practices in eastern India
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
