Satani in India

The Satani were described in the 1871 census as religious beggars, priests of inferior temples, and sellers of flowers used for offerings. Higher castes reportedly excommunicated them because of their supposedly inferior status. Some still pursue their traditional vocation of serving as temple priests or as servants attached to temples as well as that of sacred specialists. They belong to the Vaishnava sect of Hinduism and follow the teachings of Ramanuja. Sacred specialists from their own community perform all the religious rites. The Satani worship Vishnu, Lakshmi and regional deities. There are no known followers of Jesus Christ yet among the Satani, although there may be believers who have not made themselves known to outsiders.

Ministry Obstacles

A Hindu who accepts and follows Christ is likely to experience much disfavor and even hostility. Loss of friendships and status in the community is likely, and very difficult to deal with.

Scripture Focus

"And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people, and as he opened it all the people stood. And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God, and all the people answered, Amen, Amen, lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground."  Nehemiah 8:5-6

Scripture Prayer

May this people group have Holy Spirit reverence for the Lord when they hear His word.

Prayer Focus

Pray for the youth of this people group to discover good Christian resources through internet, radio and television. Pray they would be drawn to listen to, view and read these resources, and would be given spiritual understanding. Pray for any secret believers, and for others who will one day come to saving faith. Pray they would be given a longing to know the one, true God.