Mahratta unspecified   mah-RAH-tah

The Mahratta (or Maratha) remain a large influential community in the state of Maharashtra. The group's main heroic figure is Shivaji. Marathas are somewhat tolerant of other cultures. But as they consider themselves as upper caste, they usually look down upon people they consider as not their equals. The main objective of a middle-class Mahratta family is a secure future for themselves and their children, so financial success is a dominant concern. The group is considered to be socially liberal as compared to other Indian groups. Arranged marriage is not strictly enforced, and a boy can marry a girl of his choice if she is a Brahmin or a Maratha.

Ministry Obstacles

Traditional church-planting efforts sought to win individual Mahratta away from their families into new church communities. Their community leaders traditionally believe that Christianity was something to be avoided because it was seen as the reason for destructively pulling families apart.

Scripture Focus

"Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price."  Isaiah 55:1

Scripture Prayer

Pray that this people group will soon accept God’s offer of free salvation.

Prayer Focus

Pray for Mahratta families to be drawn to Jesus and for the Lord to start a movement to arise among Mahratta families. As they trust God, they can truly experience the purposes for their lives. May their families be blessed by the Lord and thank him for eternity.