Tawaif (Muslim traditions) in India

Tawaifs are courtesans, high class prostitutes who are also artistic performers. Hindu Tawaifs are far better known than their Muslim Pakistani counterparts. Tawaifs either live in India's Uttar Pradesh state or Pakistan's Punjab and Sindh Provinces. Tawaifs have their own culture which involves music and dance. People have wavered for many years between viewing them in negative terms, even as non-humans, and honoring their cultural achievements. Like any Muslim, the Tawaif believe in Allah as the all-sovereign God who spoke to Mohammed leading to the Koran, which is their holy book. Typically, Muslims in South Asia hold other beliefs that seem almost Hindu. People who are rejected are often open to spiritual change. Sharing stories of Jesus reaching out to such people might open Tawaif hearts to the savior.

Ministry Obstacles

Islam provides a strong deterrent to accepting the fact that one needs the intervention of a sin-free savior to find salvation.

Scripture Focus

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."  Psalm 51:17

Scripture Prayer

Pray for the Lord to break the spirits of members of this people group and bless them with joy of salvation and mercy.

Prayer Focus

Pray for workers led by the Holy Spirit to go to the Muslim Tawaifs until they have their own church planting movement. Pray for them to have the spiritual hunger to seek and find the only savior. Pray for the Lord to speak to the hearts of Tawaif community leaders, giving them reason to open the doors for the gospel.