"Rupashi you are as beautiful as Lakshmi (the Hindu goddess of wealth, light, beauty, and good fortune)!" Maneesh, a Raunair Hindu, was admiring his wife as she completed her preparation for the Chauth Festival in which she will fast and pray for him. Rupashi's face was beaming as she replied, "I 'm truly blessed to have you as my husband. You are like Lord Vishnu (the supreme Hindu god who sustains life) here on earth. Thank you for all the beautiful gifts you have given me." Manessh replied, "Because of your faithfulness, I have been successful and know my life will be prosperous and long."

There are over 139,000 Raunair Banias living mainly in northern India where many have prosperous lives due to profitable businesses and professions.

They devote their spiritual lives to Hindu gods like Lakshmi. By contrast, those who follow Christ know that true spirituality is found in knowing the One, True God. The One who created us can direct our lives so that those around us can see the fruit of His holiness, love, and guidance. Unfortunately, few Raunair Banias have contact with Christ's followers.

* Scripture Prayers for the Bania Rauniar in Bangladesh.

* Pray that Christ's followers will reach out to them.
* Pray that Raunair Hindus will know who Jesus really is.
* Pray that they will understand that in Him comes the true blessings in life such as peace, joy, humbleness, long suffering, and love.

Some information from "The Scheduled Castes" K. S. Singh, ed. Oxford University Press, USA (1994)