Introduction / History

The word "Nai" means a barber. The traditional occupation of the Nai Sikh was hair cutting. Nai Sikh is a respected caste in Punjab. Today most of the Nai Sikh of this caste are no longer barbers. They are doctors, engineers, farmers, teachers, drivers, businesspersons, and government workers. They are a hard-working, disciplined people. Most of the Nai Sikhs live in the north Indian state of Punjab. Smaller groups also live throughout India and in countries like USA, England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The primary language of the Nai Sikh is Eastern Punjabi. Many also speak Hindi and English. There are no known believers among the Nai Sikh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Nai Sikh live in rural villages as well as in urban areas. They are on friendly terms with the Jat, Tarkhan, Jheer, and Kumhar communities. All of these participate in each other's important events like marriages, funerals and birthdays. The Sikhs are one of the most educated and prosperous religious communities in India. The Nia Sikh marry within their group. Families arrange marriages with the input of the young people. Sons inherit the property of their father. Newly wedded couples often live near or with the groom's parents. A caste council promotes their interests and deals with outsiders.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Sikhism originated from a 15th century teacher named Guru Nanak Dev. He rejected the Hindu caste system. Nanak taught all people were equal and that all have equal access to God. The Sikh God is formless, without gender and is to be found in everyone. One gets closer to God by living a good life and by practicing charity. Like Hindus, Sikhs believe in reincarnation and the law of karma; you reap what you sow in your previous life. A Sikh is not permitted to use alcohol, tobacco or any illegal drugs. One may recognize a Sikh man by his distinctive turban. All the 10 great Sikh gurus wore turbans. Sikh teaching mandates that a person not cut his or her hair.

What Are Their Needs?

The Nai people need to hear and understand the good news of Jesus Christ. He alone can forgive their sins and grant them eternal life. The Nai Sikh need to understand that following Christ will not destroy their Sikh culture and customs.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual hunger among the Nai Sikh that will lead them to the God of the Bible. Pray for a disciple making movement that will bless among Nai Sikh people this decade. Ask the Lord to send Sikh background believers to the Nai to tell them about Jesus Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Nai (Sikh traditions) in India.