Ajila in India

Ajila
Send Joshua Project a photo
of this people group.
Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
People Name: Ajila
Country: India
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 3,800
World Population: 3,800
Primary Language: Malayalam
Primary Religion: Hinduism
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: Complete Bible
Ministry Resources: Yes
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia Dalit - other
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Hindu Ajila people, with roots in the Karnataka region, have a history that spans several centuries. They belong to a lineage of local rulers and landowners, known for their contributions to regional governance and cultural development. Over time, they maintained their traditional customs while adapting to social and economic changes. They speak Malayalam, the language of Kerala, the state to their south.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, the Ajila people primarily reside in rural areas of southern India, especially the states of Karnataka and Goa. They engage in agriculture, cultivating crops such as rice, sugarcane and spices. Many Ajila families also work in local businesses and trades. Their communities are close-knit, with strong family ties and a deep sense of mutual support. Despite facing economic challenges, the Ajila maintain a vibrant cultural life, celebrating through festivals, music and traditional dance.

The Ajila community places great importance on family, hospitality, and respect for elders, ensuring that their religious and cultural traditions are passed down through generations.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Ajila people practice Hinduism, worshiping a variety of deities and observing rituals and festivals like Diwali, Navratri and Pongal. Their belief system emphasizes values such as dharma (duty), karma (action), and ahimsa (non-violence). They also revere their ancestral spirits and perform rituals to honor them.

What Are Their Needs?

The Hindu Ajila people face several pressing needs that require attention to improve their quality of life. Access to quality education is crucial, as it provides opportunities for the younger generation to advance and succeed. Improved healthcare services are essential, given the limited availability of medical facilities and high rates of preventable diseases. Economic support through agricultural innovation, market access, and vocational training can enhance their livelihoods. Infrastructure development, including better roads, clean water supply, and electricity, will also benefit the Ajila community. Addressing these needs will enable the Ajila people to achieve greater socio-economic stability while preserving their rich cultural and religious heritage.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Ajila people to find their need for Jesus Christ, the only one who can provide life to the full.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to thrust out loving workers to take Christ to the Ajila people.
Pray that there will soon be Ajila disciples who make disciples of others, spreading Christ’s fragrance throughout Karnataka.
Pray for a record crop as a testimony of God’s goodness and unlimited power.

Text Source:   Joshua Project