Labana (Sikh traditions) in India

The term Labana appears to have been derived from “lun” (salt) and “bana” (trade). The Labanas have long been a community that carried and traded salt, but today are often farmers, livestock producers and businessmen. They are sometimes considered to be a sub-caste of the Banjara community. The Labana have eleven clans and perceive themselves as Sudras in the Varna order. The Nai community of barbers assist them in their life-cycle rituals. Most Labana are Sikhs, but there are also Hindu and Muslim communities of Labana in other parts of India.

Ministry Obstacles

The Labana are spread all over India and speak some 18 languages. It will take separate evangelistic efforts for each of these languages to reach them for Christ.

Scripture Focus

"This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you—"  Titus 1:5

Scripture Prayer

Pray for the Lord to raise up elders to lead this people group into all truth.

Prayer Focus

Pray that many youth among this people group will discover Christian videos and recordings, music and broadcasts as they search the internet and listen to radio and television. Pray they will listen and view with real understanding. The Lord is calling many to himself from among the large Banjara community. Pray the Labana, closely related to the Banjara, will be included in that call.