Kalabaz in India

The term "kalabaz" in Hindi means acrobat, and the small Kalabaz community has a history of being acrobats. They have been a migrant community but are now settled. They are primarily located in Uttar Pradesh. They marry only within their own community. They are very poor, so many Kalabaz women get sterilized. They have a panchayat, an informal caste association, which serves to provide governance. They are Hindus who worship Kali Mata, Bhairo Devta and Bajrangbali as their family deities. They rely on Brahmin priests to conduct their rites and rituals. Hindi is northern Indian's most widely spoken language.

Ministry Obstacles
The literacy rate is low for this people group, and they are likely to find it challenging to comprehend the gospel message. Exposure to the gospel could be presented in many ways, such as training in job skills, the JESUS Film, and biblical materials.

Scripture Focus
"At that time Jesus declared, I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children."  Matthew 11:25

Scripture Prayer
Pray for this people group to humble themselves and come to trust in Christ as little children.

Prayer Focus
Ask God to help this poor, low caste people group escape the stigma of their inherited low status by sending workers to not only teach them about Jesus, but also teach job skills, reading and writing, and to disciple them. Ask God to open Kalabaz hearts and grant them a deep understanding so they can receive the saving knowledge of his Son, Jesus Christ through faith. Pray for Christian materials to become widely available in Kalabaz communities.

Presented by Joshua Project
www.joshuaproject.net