Introduction / History

Adivasi (transliterated Adibasi) refers to an indigenous people group or tribe, and Janajati refers to people outside of the Hindu caste hierarchy. The Adivasi people group was in Nepal long before the Hindus and Muslims began to arrive. As time went on, caste Hindus arrived in what is now Nepal, and these people became the dominant people groups. The Adivasi Janajati live primarily in the western part of Nepal. Most speak Nepali rather than their own language.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Because Adivasi Janajati is used as an umbrella term for indigenous people in Nepal, it is difficult to generalize their lifestyles as a whole. However, the Adivasi Janajati have been historically marginalized, exploited, and discriminated against. They have lost land and other resources to dominant caste groups, as well as aspects of their culture. The Adivasi Janajati have historically lacked political and economic opportunities, and Nepal’s newest constitution, which came into effect in 2015, does not recognize their right to self-determination.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Today the Adivasi Janajati are mostly Hindu, though they have their own version of this flexible religious system. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They 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. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like 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.

What Are Their Needs?

The Adivasi Janajati need the chance to have education so they can compete in society with those who came to the land after them. Even more importantly, they need to hear the gospel so that they might find eternal hope and forgiveness in Christ.

Prayer Items

Pray for believers to care for the Adivasi Janajati by training them in skills they need in today's world.
Pray for Christians to pursue the Adivasi Janajati with the gospel.
Pray for many Adivasi Janajati to come to faith and make disciples of those around them.

Scripture Prayers for the Adibasi Janajati in Nepal.

References

http://www.iwgia.org/images/stories/sections/regions/asia/documents/IW2011/nepal_2011.pdf
https://parivartannepal.blogspot.com/2012/01/adibashi-and-janajati-indigenous-people_04.html
https://iwgia.org/en/nepal/4236-iw-2021-nepal.html