Mallah (Hindu traditions)   mah-LAH

The Mallah of Uttar Pradesh are boatmen who derive their name from a character from the Hindu epic called the Ramayana. The character Nishad ferried the gods Ram, Sita, and Lakshman across the river. The Mallahs regard their occupation as a holy one, carrying Hindu devotees along the sacred Ganga (Ganges River). They take pride in their heritage, even though they are considered a backward caste, and are poor and mostly illiterate. They are strict about marrying within their own caste.

Ministry Obstacles

The Mallahs live along the major waterways of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal. These are some of the least-reached states of India. Their dedication to Hindu pilgrimages makes them less likely to accept that Jesus offers the only way to spiritual truth.

Scripture Focus

"You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God."  Isaiah 62:3

Scripture Prayer

Pray for this blessing to come to today’s people group.

Prayer Focus

Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching families that will result in thousands of new believers who share their faith with others. Pray for grace and truth to spread throughout the entire Mallah society, enabling all believers to love one another. Pray that churches and believers will bless their entire people group in such a way that God's love changes the Mallahs as yeast changes dough.