Bania Brittal in India

Introduction / History

The Hari people of the Brahmaputra Valley are also called Brittal Bania. In Assam they speak Bengali, Assamese and Hindi. In West Bengal, where they are a scheduled caste, the Hari speak Bengali. Others live in Uttar Pradesh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many of the Brittal Bania now work in agriculture. Some work in government and private service while others work as day laborers. Their literacy level is low, so the gospel will need to be presented in oral forms. They eat meat, fish, eggs and rice. Upon the death of the father, sons inherit the property.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Brittal Bania 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.

What Are Their Needs?

They need to accept the blessings of Jesus Christ, the one who came to give abundant life to all who call on his name.

Prayer Points

Pray that Indian believers will help them to begin their own Disciple Making Movement.
Pray that gospel recordings and the JESUS Film will be easily available to them.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the only Savior.
Pray for intercessors and workers.

Text Source:   Joshua Project