Bedia (Muslim traditions) in Nepal

Introduction / History

The Bedias have an uncertain origin. They are known by other names in India such as 'wandering Kurmi ', Berai, Beria and Bedia Kudmi. The name Bedia is said to have come from the word behara meaning 'jungle '. Older anthropological descriptions have equated the Bedia as a South Asia form of the European Romani. Most of the Bedias are Hindus, but there are many that are Muslims and very much unreached in Bangladesh, Nepal and India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The traditional occupation of many Bedias was agriculture. In more recent years in north India and Nepal they have taken up wage labor jobs. Some women are dancers (mujra) and singers. The Bedias are not vegetarian and generally prefer to eat rice, maize, mandua and gondli. Because many live in rural communities, education is not a priority and consequently literacy is low.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Muslim Bedia believe in the Five Pillars of Islam, and those who are dedicated to this religion pray together on Fridays. Those with the resources go on the pilgrimage to Mecca. Each year they hold to the Fast of Ramadan. However, like most South Asian Muslims, their Islamic beliefs are tainted by Hindu practices.

What Are Their Needs?

There has been a reported response to the gospel among the Hindu Bedias in Bangladesh but among the Muslim Bedis there is no known believers. In central India poorer Bedias have been assisted with tracts of land which has raised their standard of living in recent years.

Prayer Points

Pray that the church might respond with workers and initiatives like landownership along with the gospel message to bring a new hope to the Bedia Muslim people.
Pray the Muslim Bedia people would see they can enjoy abundant life if they put their trust in Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord to intervene in their families, calling people to his side and blessing them in every way.
Pray for loving workers.

Text Source:   Joshua Project