South Asian, general in Congo, Democratic Republic of
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| People Name: | South Asian, general |
| Country: | Congo, Democratic Republic of |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 224,000 |
| World Population: | 12,178,700 |
| Primary Language: | Hindi |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 1.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.04 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
DR Congo has the largest Indian community among central African countries. South Asians in the Democratic Republic of the Congo are mainly Indian and most speak Hindi. There is also a large Muslim Ishmaili community from India as well. India established its embassy in the capital Kinshasa in the early 1860s before the country was called by its present name. The two countries have good relations, and they trade with each other.
What Are Their Lives Like?
They work in services, business, manufacturing and trading. Most Indians come from Gujarat with some from Kerala. There is a Hindu temple in Kinshasa. Both India and Pakistan have peace keeping forces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Most South Asians in the DRC 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. Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.
What Are Their Needs?
South Asian Hindus in the DRC need bold hearts that are ready to seek and find a relationship with Jesus Christ, King of kings.
Prayer Points
Pray that these South Asians will have a spiritual hunger that will open their hearts to the King of kings. Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to the South Asian Hindus in Africa. Pray for workers who are driven by the love and boldness of the Holy Spirit to go to them. Pray for a movement to Christ among them to begin this decade.