Dasnami Gosain in India

The Dasnami Gosain were traditionally a group of wandering, begging mendicants living a life devoted to the Hindi god Shiva. Many today do not follow this ascetic lifestyle and work jobs in north and central India. Some Gosain men still follow their ancient life of begging, praying and teaching the Hindu sacred writings. They are celibate and strict vegetarians. Many more Gosain own land and work in agriculture and in the dairy industry. Gosain men have occupations in government, education and other professions. Families arrange marriages with the consent of the young people. The Dasnami marry within their group or sometimes in the larger Gosain. Caste associations enforce cultural norms. A Gosain person who violates their rules is fined or shunned.

Ministry Obstacles

They are very dedicated to the Hindu religious system. A Gosain who becomes a believer could face being ostracized by family and neighbors.

Scripture Focus

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."  Proverbs 3:5-6

Scripture Prayer

Make this your prayer for today’s people group.

Prayer Focus

Pray that Gosain will see that their old systems of ethics and religion are not working and that their only hope is in Jesus Christ. Pray that intercessors worldwide will regularly pray for the salvation of Dasnami Gosain. Pray for Spirit-filled servants to disciple them and plant churches among them. Ask God to raise up entire Gosain families and communities until their culture is transformed by him to fully glorify God and represent his kingdom here on earth.