The Bastar district is sometimes described as the 'Kashmir of Chhatisgarh '. The area is rich in natural beauty, surrounded by dense forests, mountains, streams, waterfalls, natural caves, and natural parks. It is also home to some colorful tribes: the Halbas, the Bhatras and the Gonds. Among these, the Halba occupy a key position. This could be because the friendly Halba are one of the most progressive and affluent landowning tribal communities. Halba people maintain a good rapport with neighboring tribes and take pride in their unique cultural elements such as their costumes, language, and lifestyle.
Though the Halba are primarily found in Chhattisgarh, they are also scattered through the neighboring states of Maharashtra and Odisha.
Their literacy level is very low owing to the poor infrastructure. Villages have primary schools, but these do not function regularly. Though there are some positive changes taking place in Halba society, poor health, malnutrition, infant mortality, child marriage and child labor are still major obstacles to significant progress.
The Halba are largely Hindu, with a small percentage of Muslims and Christians. Different mission agencies are involved in evangelism, and churches are being established. God's word is the first ever printed material in Halbi – the language of the Halba. In addition to Scripture portions, a film about Jesus, gospel tracts and audio cassettes are also available in Halbi. However, people are hesitant to decide to follow the Lord, so missionaries are making inroads to the community through child-care programs. Christians being viewed as low caste, illiteracy, and forced re-conversion are the main hindrances to the spread of the gospel across this region.
The Halba people need protection, both from criminal elements in their area, but also from the work of the devil. The only protection they can have is Jesus Christ, the one who came to destroy the work of the devil.
Pray for the Halba culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit and shaped into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Halba family and community leaders to seek his face and enjoy his blessings.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a Disciple Making Movement among the Halba people.
Pray that soon the Halba people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the savior.
Scripture Prayers for the Halba in India.
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
