Introduction / History

The Gandla people live in Andhra Pradesh. They speak, read and write in Telugu.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Selling household and decorative items is their main work. The Gandla who live in towns and cities tend to be in business. Their literacy level is low, so the gospel will need to be presented in oral forms. They have a council to look after their needs. The Gandla have cross-cousin marriages. They allow for divorce and remarriage. Unlike most Hindus they bury their dead. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property with the oldest son becoming the new head of the household.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Gandla people 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.

What Are Their Needs?

They need to put their trust in Jesus Christ, the one who offers them life to the full.

Prayer Points

Pray that the council leaders come to Jesus Christ and open the doors for a disciple making movement. Pray that gospel recordings and the JESUS Film will become easily available to them. Pray for faithful intercessors and workers.

Scripture Prayers for the Gandla in India.