Chali in Bhutan
Photo Source:
Copyrighted © 2024
Peoples of the Buddhist World, Asia Harvest All rights reserved. Used with permission |
Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Chali |
| Country: | Bhutan |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 1,800 |
| World Population: | 1,800 |
| Primary Language: | Chalikha |
| Primary Religion: | Buddhism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Unspecified |
| Ministry Resources: | No |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | No |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Buddhist |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Chali people inhabit a few villages in the Mongar (also spelled Monggar and Mongaa) District of Bhutan.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Mongar is a small, nondescript town that sits on the top of a ridge. Mongar has a small Buddhist monastery, housing fifty or sixty monks, some of whom are young boys not yet in their teens. Although the town itself is of minor interest to visitors, the area has strikingly beautiful scenery, as does most of Bhutan.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Tibetan Buddhism has been the dominant religion in Bhutan since its reported introduction in AD 746, when 'Sendha Gyab, the king of Bumthang, had a conflict with another Indian king in the south of Bhutan. As a result of this dispute, Sendha Gyab became possessed by a demon, and it required a powerful tantric master to exorcise it. The greatest master was the teacher Padmasambhava, better known as Guru Rimpoche (precious master). After an extended process involving trickery and magic dances, the guru captured the demon and converted it to Buddhism. For good measure, he also converted the king and his rival, restoring the country to peace. The first visit of Guru Rimpoche to Bumthang is recognized as the true introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. '
What Are Their Needs?
There are no known Christ followers among the Chali people. Few have ever heard the gospel in a meaningful manner. It will be difficult for anyone to reach their remote location.
Prayer Points
Pray for the authority of Christ to bind hindering spiritual forces to lead the Chali people from darkness to light.
Pray for signs and wonders to happen among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.
Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to the Chali people.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ that will bless them in every way.