Introduction / History

The Rana are a subgroup of the greater Paik community of southern Odisha, India.

They first emerged as a community of foot soldiers in the 16th century. They were not considered a caste until the British Empire took control of their part of India.

In 1817 there was the Paikas Rebellion, where this community started an armed rebellion against the British. Today the peoples of India honor this rebellion by setting apart a 10-acre plot of land in Odisha. Some view this as India’s first war for independence.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Paik Rana have traditionally been foot soldiers. They have “other backward caste” status, which means their status is somewhat low.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Paik Rana 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 most “backward” castes, the Paik Rana need better educational opportunities so they can advance socially and economically.

Prayer Points

Pray for gospel workers to catch a vision for reaching the Paik Rana people for Jesus and that in God’s sovereign timing their hearts would be open and ready to follow him.
Pray for Jesus movements to bless extended families so the gospel will spread rapidly among this people group.
Pray for the spiritual lives of the Paik Rana people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.

Scripture Prayers for the Paik Rana in India.

References

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-who-were-paikas-odisha-and-what-will-memorial-celebrate-6156664/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paika_(community)