Nayadi in India

The name of this people group comes from the word nayattu, meaning “hunting.” Once skilled hunters and trappers, modern Nayadis are known as scavengers and beggars. Residing primarily in the Indian states of Gujarat and Kerala, the Nayadis spend their days searching for water and firewood, making ropes, and gathering herbs for sale. Many are reduced to panhandling on city streets. As members of the low class communities, they may accept assistance from higher classes, but cannot return the favor. They are not accepted by caste Hindus. Until fairly recently, the Nayadis were not even allowed to walk the same streets as Brahmins. The Nayadi are Hindus who worship local deities, including Mallan, Malavarhy, and Parakutty.

Ministry Obstacles

Lack of Christian workers remains a severe handicap to the progress of the gospel throughout South Asia. Jesus said to pray for workers!

Scripture Focus

"For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you."  Psalm 86:5

Scripture Prayer

Thank the Lord that He is eager to offer love and forgiveness to peoples who turn to Him for help!

Prayer Focus

Pray for this low status caste to be able to escape the stigma of their position. Pray they would live honorably and gain the respect of those living around them. Pray for rising literacy levels among the youth, and for improved employment opportunities. There has been no indication of any followers of Jesus Christ among the Nayadi to this date, but there may be secret believers. Pray for any Christians, that their faith would be protected and nurtured and that they will grow numbers.