Sudhan in Pakistan

Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
People Name: Sudhan
Country: Pakistan
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 175,000
World Population: 198,000
Primary Language: Hindko, Northern
Primary Religion: Islam
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Ministry Resources: No
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia Muslim - other
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Muslim Sudhan people, with origins in the Sudhan tribe of the Indian subcontinent, have a long history. They trace their lineage back to ancient warrior clans and have a legacy of military service. Over the centuries, they embraced Islam and migrated to present-day Pakistan, where they integrated into local society while preserving their distinct cultural identity.

The city of Rawalakot, the capital of the Sudhan tribe, suffered significant damage from the 2005 Kashmir earthquake. Today, the Muslim Sudhan people primarily reside in the hilly regions of Azad Kashmir in Pakistan.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They engage in various occupations, including agriculture, military service and public administration. Many Sudhan families own and cultivate land, growing crops such as wheat, maize and rice. Their communities are close-knit, with strong family ties and a deep sense of mutual support. Despite facing economic challenges and limited access to modern amenities, the Sudhan maintain a strong cultural identity, actively participating in social and religious events that reinforce their community bonds. Sudhuns are a tight knit community. They value education of women.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Wahabi influence has recently been noted among the Sudhans. This is among the most conservative and devout forms of Sunni Islam.

What Are Their Needs?

Pakistan is generally hostile to Christian witness, made worse by Wahabi influence.

Focused, sustained prayer is needed to prepare the hearts of the Sudhan community to receive the gospel when it comes. Only the Holy Spirit can break through.

Prayer Points

There likely are no followers of Christ among the Sudhan community. Pray for those that the Lord will soon call to himself, that they will clearly understand the grace and truth offered through faith in Christ, resting fully on his finished work on the cross, and the power of his life within them.
Pray for the proud Sudhan community to clearly see their need for a savior and recognize Jesus as the provision God has provided.

Text Source:   Joshua Project