Introduction / History

The Barwala people belong to a very low class community. They live in India's far northern state of Jammu and Kashmir.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of them live in rural areas. Traditionally they have worked as village watchmen and messengers, overseeing the work of coolies, bearing torches and carrying palanquins at weddings. Today most of them are engaged in agriculture or as unskilled laborers.

As far as their families are concerned the Barwalas live mainly in nuclear households. The oldest son becomes the head of the household when the father dies. They allow for divorce and remarriage.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Barwala people in India practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

Like all other peoples of the world, this people group needs the blessings and guidance that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Prayer Points

Ask God to raise up Barwala who are more desirous to know the truth than to stay on the broad road to death.

Ask God to send loving, committed workers to the Barwala in the near future.

Pray the Barwala would no longer be hidden away from the influence of Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Barwala (Hindu traditions) in India.