Introduction / History

This is actually of a cluster of people groups that does various crafts including blacksmithing, carpentry, goldsmithing, copper smithing, and stonemasonry. They include the better known Lohars. They live mostly in Gujarat, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Others now do manufacturing of tools. They are becoming more and more educated. They have a caste council to look after their interests. The Panchal have adult marriages that are arranged by family leaders. They allow for divorce and remarriage. On the death of the father, the sons inherit the property with the oldest son taking charge of the home.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Panchal people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. 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 like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

What Are Their Needs?

The Panchal people need to submit to God the Father so they can experience life to the full.

Prayer Points

Pray that the caste council leaders will accept the lordship of Christ and help lead their people into a disciple making movement. Pray that God will give them dreams and visions leading them to a relationship with the Lord. Pray for faithful intercessors and workers among them.

Scripture Prayers for the Viswakarma Panchal in India.