Bhand (Muslim traditions)   bih-HAHND

Bhands derive their name from the Sanskrit word bhanda, meaning jester. They have retained their traditional and indigenous forms of folk theater, folk dance, and folk music, while seeking alms. However, this people group today are mostly involved in other vocations. Married women wear a black-bead necklace and glass bangles. Children receive religious education, particularly in Koranic recitations. The Bhand belong to the Sunni sect of Islam and observe fasting in the month of Ramadan.

Ministry Obstacles

Most Bhand live in Uttar Pradesh, where only one in 1,000 follow Christ. The Uttar Pradesh government and people reject the Christian gospel. The Bhand are said to have a low literacy rate as a collective group. Christian workers will need to share stories from scripture orally as an appropriate method for sharing the gospel.

Scripture Focus

"Who can utter the mighty deeds of the LORD, or declare all his praise?"  Psalm 106:2

Scripture Prayer

May many from this people group not be able to praise Him enough!

Prayer Focus

Pray for families of believers, loving and serving others, to grow and reproduce churches. Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching other families to develop God's kingdom in Uttar Pradesh. Pray for grace and truth to expand into the Bhand society. May Christian believers love one another and those around them.