Sankara in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Sankara |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 91,000 |
| World Population: | 103,000 |
| Primary Language: | Bengali |
| 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 Hindu - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Hindu Sankara people in India have a background primarily connected to agriculture, traditional crafts, and trade. Since they live in India’s eastern states, they speak Bengali.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Sankara people live in rural villages and small towns, focusing on farming, craftsmanship, and trade. They grow crops such as rice, wheat, and various vegetables. Many also engage in weaving, pottery, and other artisanal crafts, contributing to their local economy. Their diet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, featuring staples like rice, lentils, vegetables and meat. Traditional dishes vary by region but often include dal (lentil soup), roti (flatbread), and vegetable or meat curries.
Weddings among the Sankara are elaborate, involving Hindu rituals like the exchange of garlands, sacred fire ceremonies, and celebrations with traditional music, dance and communal feasting. These events typically span several days and involve extensive community participation.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Sankara people practice Hinduism, worshiping various deities and observing numerous religious rituals and festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and Navratri. Their belief system emphasizes values like dharma (duty), karma (actions and consequences), and ahimsa (non-violence). They conduct rituals and ceremonies to honor their ancestors and deities, integrating elements of their daily life and occupations into their spiritual practices.
What Are Their Needs?
The Sankara people need better access to quality education to provide more opportunities for their children. Improved healthcare services are essential due to the limited availability of medical facilities and high rates of preventable diseases. Economic support through vocational training, modern agricultural practices, and sustainable craftsmanship techniques can enhance their livelihoods. Infrastructure development, including better roads, clean water supplies, and reliable electricity, will greatly benefit the Sankara community.
Prayer Points
Pray that God will send culturally-sensitive workers who will show them the way to the cross.
Pray for a Disciple Making Movement to flourish among this people group in the near future.
Pray for the Sankara people to be blessed with peace, joy and spiritual prosperity as they follow Jesus Christ.