Introduction / History

The Halwai are a caste of sweet makers and confectioners. The Mairas are a subgroup of the Hawais. The name Halwai comes from the Hindi word "Halwa" which is a sweet. The Halwais are well respected among Hindus. Because of the importance sweets have in the Hindu religion, they have a special position in festivals, childbirths and marriages. The Halwai live mainly in India's northern states, but they also live in both Bangladesh and Nepal.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Like other Halwai communities, the Maira produce and sell sweets. Sometimes they do this in roadside shops, and other times they sell them at special events. They can cater cakes and sweets for weddings and festivals.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Like candy, Hinduism offers what seems like a sweet way to satisfy hunger without including any substance. It is way too easy for the Maira Halwais to be satisfied with what they have, without finding out that only Jesus offers life to the full. Believers who purchase sweets at Maira Halwai shops can give them copies of the JESUS Film as a way to open the door to the gospel.

What Are Their Needs?

Maira Halwais need to put their trust and identity in Jesus Christ rather than their caste status. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, including this community.

Prayer Items

As far as we know, there are no followers of Christ among the Maira Halwai, so pray that this will be the year when the Lord moves in their community. Pray for the Maira Halwai people to understand and embrace that Jesus wants to bless their families and neighborhoods. Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Maira Halwai people. Pray for a movement of Jesus to heal and strengthen Maira Halwai communities.

Scripture Prayers for the Halwai Maira in Bangladesh.