Introduction / History

Their name means "hunter" since this was what they did traditionally. Some became farmers during the 1920s when they were forced to give up hunting, while others now live in Delhi where they sell flowers and garlands. Those who live in Delhi have access to modern medicine. Rajasthan is Aheria's original homeland.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Parents arrange marriages for their children when they are between 16-25. Like many Hindu communities, they pay the bride price in jewelry. The wedding rituals are performed at the bride's house, usually by a Brahmin.
Aheria communities want their children to achieve a better education than previous generations. Though most don't get past secondary education, there are some Aherias who are college educated. For a scheduled caste group, the Aherias have a high literacy rate.

The name Aheria means hunter because this was the main occupation of this group prior to the 1920s. However, in 1920, hunting was banned and this led to the disappearance of their principal occupation. The

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though the Hindu peoples have given the Aheria a "scheduled caste" status, the Aherias would still consider themselves to be Hindus. They cremate their dead and worship Hindu deities such as Jhind, Tejaji, Goraji, Hamadevji, and Hanumanji.

What Are Their Needs?

The Aheria people need to put their trust and identity in the hands of the loving God of Creation who sent his son to make it possible for them to enter the Kingdom of God.

Prayer Items

Pray for them to understand and respond to Christ.
Pray God will have mercy on the Aheria doing, whatever it takes to place them in a position to receive him.
Ask God to open the hearts of the Aheria to the gospel.
Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.

Scripture Prayers for the Aheria in India.