Nat (Hindu traditions) in Bangladesh

People Name:	Nat (Hindu traditions)
Country:	Bangladesh
10/40 Window:	Yes
Population:	15,000
World Population:	591,500
Primary Language:	Bengali
Primary Religion:	Hinduism
Christian Adherents:	0.33 %
Evangelicals:	0.00 %
Scripture:	Complete Bible
Ministry Resources:	Yes
Jesus Film:	Yes
Audio Recordings:	Yes
People Cluster:	South Asia Dalit - other
Affinity Bloc:	South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Nat are a community traditionally employed as dancers, singers and acrobats. They are a Scheduled Caste in some states where they live, but not all states. The Nat people live not only in Bangladesh, but also in India, Nepal, and Pakistan. There are Nats in Bangladesh who have identified themselves as Christian believers, but not so in the other countries.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today, many in the Nat community are employed in farming and other trades. Both men and women chew betel nuts and tobacco, and drinking alcohol is common. They usually live in hamlets on the outskirts of villages and towns.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Hindu Nats worship all the Hindu gods and goddesses, including Rama and Shiva. Some Nat worship Dack as their main deity, while their regional deity is Goraibaba. Some become hermits and chant the name of Rama, and others are exorcists, healers and fortune tellers.

What Are Their Needs?

The Nat people need to submit to Jesus Christ so they can experience the abundant life he offers them in John 10:10.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual hunger among the Nat people in Bangladesh that will turn their hearts to Jesus. Please pray the Nat community will acquire skills to make them employable in reputable trades. The youth need better education. Pray that parents will understand the importance of a good education for their children.