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Summary
Bhamptas have two main divisions: Chhatri Bhamtas, usually known as immigrants from Gujarat, and Bhamtis, from the Maratha country. In the past, both Bhampta men and women attempted to making a livelihood as petty thieves and pickpockets, adopting disguises and dressing as members of different castes. The Bhamtas, formerly known as these notorious thieves, now engage more productively in the culture by cultivating hemp, a material used for ropes, mats, and bags. Bhamptas practice both infant and adult marriages. Polygamy is permitted. Bhamptas worship Mari Ayi. Before a wedding, they sacrifice goats and fowls to the deities Mari Ayi and Tuljhapur Bhawani.
Ministry Obstacles
Although this community is small, its members speak a variety of languages. Each language subgroup may require its own evangelistic effort.
Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
Psalm 20:7
Pray
Pray that many from this “nation” will boast only in the name of the Lord.
Pray for the Bhamptas to turn away from their history of thievery and immorality completely, yearn for righteousness, and find their hope in Christ. Pray for a massive turning to Christ that will lead to productive work and a turning from crime. Pray for non-Christians to be amazed by what God does for this community, so that these yet-to-believe Bhamptas will join the family of God.
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