Bajania in India

War has far-reaching consequences. The Bajania of Gujarat, India, know this very well. At one time, they all lived in Rajasthan and fought for Rajput kings. But when Islamic armies defeated them, some Bajania moved east into what is now Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. For a time, they suffered poverty. To obtain their basic, daily food, they resorted to doing acrobatic tricks, dancing, and prostitution. The Bajania no longer practice prostitution. They still perform folk dances and acrobatic tricks for anyone willing to pay. The men will beat drums to attract a crowd, and their women will do dances involving ropes stretched between bamboo poles. Many Bajania also work in agriculture on land owned by others. Rural Bajania often lack access to modern medicine and clean water. As a result, child mortality is high. Their children often drop out of school after a few years to help their family make a living.

Ministry Obstacles
Their homeland, Gujarat, is one of India's centers of Hindu nationalism. Christians and Muslims are sometimes targeted for attack.

Scripture Focus
"Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long."  Psalm 25:5

Scripture Prayer
Pray that this very year many from this people group will seek the Lord for the right path to true righteousness and guidance.

Prayer Focus
Pray for a movement of Jesus to heal and strengthen Bajania communities. Pray for the Bajania to understand and embrace Jesus, who wants to bless their families and neighborhoods. Ask the Lord to send workers who are full of the Holy Spirit to the Bajania. Pray that the Bajania tune to Gujarati radio programs and learn about Christ. Pray for a movement in which the Holy Spirit leads and empowers Bajania disciples to encourage others to become disciples.

Presented by Joshua Project
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