Of the four major varnas (caste clusters), Banias are in the third one, the Vaishyas. This caste cluster has always been about trade, business and money lending. Throughout history they were traders of grain and spices. Despite their high incomes, the Banias have only modest status in the Hindu caste pyramid. They resent the higher two varnas, the Brahmins and the Kshatriyas, and thus Banias have often been leaders in caste reform movements. Mahatma Gandhi is one example, but there have been many others throughout India's long history.
There are smaller groups of Banias, one of which is the Oswal Banias. They are mostly found in Rajasthan, Punjab, and other nearby areas of northern India.
Oswals are indispensable for the Indian economy and tend to fare well in business. They are the wealthy and very influential in business, industry, and society. The Oswals are known for commemorating their festivals with celebration, color and song.
Although most Oswals follow Jain religious teachings, some are more influenced by Hinduism. According to Jain teaching, it is considered a sin to take a life. As a result, they are strict vegetarians. Their goddess, Sachchika, is often their family deity. They have high morals, but they lack a relationship with the one true God.
They live all over India, but there are probably no Christ followers among the Oswal Bania people anywhere. They need contact with vibrant, loving Christ followers who can introduce them to the only savior.
Pray for the Oswal people to hear about Jesus through evangelistic internet, radio and literature efforts.
Pray that God will send loving missionaries to this unreached people group.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move throughout Oswal communities, showing them the way to the cross and the empty grave.
Scripture Prayers for the Bania Oswal in India.
Some information from “The Scheduled Castes” K. S. Singh, ed. Oxford University Press, USA (1994)
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
