Hande Jogi in India

The Hande Jogis, a Scheduled Caste, reside mainly in Karnataka, southern India. Their occupation, pig rearing, is considered not only shameful but also a source of disease. The Handi Jogi pig herders face more than just financial hardship, as other people groups view them as human garbage and discriminate against them. A traditional community council with an elected headman maintains social control.

Ministry Obstacles
A socio-economic survey of the Handi Jogi community has highlighted the need for their uplift by bringing them to the mainstream of society, as they live in abject poverty. They follow Hinduism and worship deities like Yellamma, Mariamma, and Nandeshwara. They offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. Spiritual darkness pervades people who give their devotion to malevolent spirits instead of their creator.

Scripture Focus
"I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name."  Revelation 3:8

Scripture Prayer
Pray for a wide-open door for the gospel to penetrate the culture of this people group.

Prayer Focus
Pray for the Handi Jogi to hear how valuable they are to the Creator of all things. Pray for them to learn that God sent his only Son so they could have eternal life with his purpose. Pray for loving workers to go to the Hande Jogi soon. Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching out to other families, resulting in thousands of new disciples who share their faith with others. Pray against discriminatory practices and for economic and social breakthroughs.

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