Ghosi (Hindu traditions) in India

The Ghosi name comes from the Sanskrit word ghush, which means “to shout.” The reason for this is that the Ghosi are herdsmen who are noted for shouting as they herd their cattle. The raising of cattle for their milk has been the traditional work of the Ghosi for centuries, and this continues today. They can be found in several north Indian states, most notably Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and West Bengal. They speak Hindi and read and write in Devanagari. They still work mainly in agriculture, especially in animal husbandry. When the father dies, property goes to the sons; except that women can keep their ornaments. The Ghosi are endogamous, meaning they prefer marriage within their group. They allow for divorce and remarriage. They have a council to settle disputes called the Jati Biradari Sabha.

Ministry Obstacles

The Ghosi live mainly in parts of India with few Christian believers. Few will ever meet someone who lives the abundant life offered by Jesus Christ.

Scripture Focus

"I will praise the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being."  Psalm 146:2

Scripture Prayer

Pray for the Lord to raise up people from this people group with this kind of dedication to the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray that the council leaders will put their faith in Jesus and lead others into a movement to Christ. Pray that gospel materials will lead them to salvation. Pray for faithful intercessors and workers. All kinds of gospel materials exist in the Hindi language, spoken by the Ghosi. Pray for them to be downloaded on their cell phones.