Gujarati in United Kingdom

Introduction / History

The Indian state of Gujarat has long been an important center for trade, and their merchants have been sent all over the world. Because their commercial skills have been combined with their natural dedication, the Gujarati have become successful in business ventures internationally. They have literally spread over the entire world to 28 countries. Large populations now live in the UK and East Africa.
Gujarat is one of the most industrialized states in India. The Gujaratis are known as being resourceful businessmen. This has helped them to successfully emigrate and thrive around the world. The Gujaratis who have emigrated to the UK are usually from the higher, wealthier castes and have maintained many aspects of their own culture.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Gujaratis in the UK have taken on western dress, speak the English language and strive for the Western level of success. They are best known for their work in the motel industry, but Gujarati businessmen are in all kinds of endeavors. They have also excelled in many other areas such as academics, the arts, sports and literature.
They are in the midst of a cultural change regarding marriage. Traditional Gujarati Hindus have marriages arranged by their families. Young Gujaratis in the UK want to combine arranged marriage with romantic love. Each Gujarati family must navigate this modern expectation.
Gujaratis feel connected to their mother country, India, and stay in contact with their relatives there. Most of the immigrants to the UK are concentrated in large cities where they face problems such as crime and drug abuse.
Gujaratis in the UK are usually Hindus, and their religion offers them some connection with their homeland, India, while Christianity is one foreign element they can avoid. Gujaratis are famous for running successful businesses, which can sometimes become an idol.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Gujaratis are mostly Hindu, though there is no set religion they must adhere to. They tend to be tolerant of a variety of religious ideologies and not get too wrapped up in their religion, which they see as more of a culture or tradition than a religion. They are Hindu because it is their culture, and they believe the Hindu gods can help them with their practical needs.

What Are Their Needs?

Their needs are spiritual. Almost none among the Gujarati diaspora have allowed Jesus to give them the abundant life he offers in John 10:10.

Prayer Points

Pray for the small remnant of true believers among Gujaratis to be discipled and to lead others to the saving gospel. Pray for a spiritual hunger among Gujarati Hindus that would lead them to the only savior.
Pray for people who have the right background to go to them.
Pray that the UK would be an incubator for a Gujarati movement to Christ.

Text Source:   Joshua Project