Introduction / History

The Siyalgir live in West Bengal. They speak, read and write in Bengali.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Siyalgir sell vegetables and fish at local markets. Some of them work as agricultural laborers. They have a council to look after their interests. Their educational level is low so the gospel will need to be given in oral form. They use modern medicines.
The Siyalgir allow the bereaved and the divorced to marry again. They cremate their dead. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property with the oldest son taking charge of the family estate. The women help with financial matters.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Siyalgir 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.
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

Pray that Siyalgir council leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead others to him.
Pray that gospel recordings lead them to begin home Bible studies.
Pray for spiritual hunger and discernment that will lead them to the cross.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out loving workers to the Siyalgir this decade.

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

References

Singh, K. S., ed. "India's Communities A-Z", Oxford University Press, USA 1999