Gandla

Gandla speak, read, and write in Telugu. Selling household and decorative items is their main work. The Gandla who live in towns and cities tend to own businesses. Their literacy level is low, so the gospel will need to be presented in oral forms. They have a council to look after their needs. They have cross-cousin marriages. They allow for divorce and remarriage. Unlike most Hindus, they bury their dead. When the father dies, sons inherit the property. The oldest son becomes the new head of the family.

Ministry Obstacles

The Gandla practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins. Such a situation means potential gospel workers will need to take extra care to understand their spiritual beliefs. Since they may not have any Christ followers in their community, the Gandla will need to hear the gospel from cultural outsiders.

Scripture Focus

"Bless our God, O peoples; let the sound of his praise be heard,"  Psalm 66:8

Scripture Prayer

Pray that today’s people group will loudly sing His praises to other nations.

Prayer Focus

Pray that the council leaders come to Jesus Christ and open the doors for a movement to Christ. Pray that gospel recordings and the JESUS Film will become readily available to them. Pray for faithful intercessors and workers.