Soria in India

Introduction / History

The Hindi-speaking Hindu Soria people live in Madhya Pradesh, India. Historically, the Soria have been involved in agriculture, working the fertile lands of central India. Over generations, the community has developed a deep connection to farming, relying on it as their primary source of income and sustenance. As economic changes have reached rural areas, the Soria have adapted, though agriculture remains central to their way of life.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Soria people primarily engage in farming, cultivating crops like wheat, rice and pulses. Their farming methods often depend on seasonal rainfall, and family members work together to plant, tend and harvest their crops. In addition to agriculture, some Soria families also rear livestock, which provides additional food and income.

The Soria live in close-knit villages, where homes are constructed from locally sourced materials such as brick, mud and thatch. Life in the village revolves around agricultural work, family obligations and religious practices. While some younger Soria seek education and employment in nearby towns and cities, most families remain connected to their traditional agricultural practices.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Soria people practice Hinduism, worshiping deities such as Vishnu, Shiva and Durga. They participate in major Hindu festivals like Diwali, Holi and Navaratri, which are important both spiritually and socially. These festivals provide opportunities for families and communities to come together in celebration and prayer.

The Soria people’s religious practices are closely linked to their agricultural lifestyle, with prayers and rituals aimed at ensuring good harvests, favorable weather and the health of their livestock. Temples and shrines in the villages serve as focal points for religious observances, with local religious leaders guiding rituals and ceremonies.

What Are Their Needs?

The Soria people face several challenges related to economic stability, education and healthcare. Many families still rely on traditional farming methods, making them vulnerable to unpredictable weather patterns and soil degradation. Access to modern agricultural tools, sustainable farming practices and irrigation systems would help improve crop yields and enhance their livelihoods.

Education is another critical need. Many Soria children have limited access to quality schooling, especially in rural areas where schools may be under-resourced. Expanding educational opportunities would enable younger generations to pursue more diverse career paths and improve their economic prospects.

Healthcare services are also inadequate, with many Soria families having to travel long distances to access medical care. Improving healthcare infrastructure and making services more accessible would greatly benefit the community’s overall well-being.

Prayer Points

Pray for the spiritual lives of the Soria people to become fruitful as they follow Christ.
Pray for the lives and culture of the Soria people to evidence the rule and reign of the Kingdom of God as they open to the gospel, and for the beauty of Jesus to be seen in them.
Pray for gospel workers to catch a vision for reaching the Soria 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.

Text Source:   Joshua Project