Introduction / History

The Hindu Ghadi people in India have a background deeply connected to agriculture and traditional crafts. They primarily speak Goan Konkani.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Ghadi people live in rural villages, focusing on farming and small-scale crafts. They grow crops such as rice, wheat and vegetables. Their communities emphasize strong family bonds and mutual support. Their diet includes both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food, featuring staples like rice, lentils, vegetables and meat. Traditional dishes such as bhakri (a type of flatbread) and chicken curry are common in their meals. Weddings among the Ghadi are elaborate, involving Hindu rituals like the exchange of garlands, sacred fire ceremonies, and celebrations with music and dance.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Ghadi people practice Hinduism, worshiping various deities and observing numerous religious rituals and festivals such as Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi and Makar Sankranti. Their belief system emphasizes values like dharma (duty), karma (actions and consequences), and ahimsa (non-violence). They honor their ancestors through rituals and ceremonies, ensuring the transmission of their religious and cultural traditions across generations.

What Are Their Needs?

The Ghadi people need better access to quality education to provide more opportunities for their children. Improved healthcare services are essential due to the limited availability of medical facilities and high rates of preventable diseases. Economic support through modern agricultural techniques, market access, and vocational training can enhance their livelihoods. Infrastructure development, including better roads, clean water supplies, and reliable electricity, will greatly benefit the Ghadi community.

Prayer Points

Pray the hearts of the Ghadi people would be stirred to hunger after God, to drink of living water.
Pray for family-based movement to Christ to soon transform Ghadi society, blessing them spiritually and economically.
Pray for the Lord to move in the hearts of Christian believers to give up their own rights and sacrifice their lives to see the Ghadi people blessed by the work of Jesus Christ, the only savior.

Scripture Prayers for the Ghadi in India.

References

Cultural Traditions of Maharashtra and Karnataka, Ministry of Culture, Government of India, 2017.
Sharma, B.K., "Agricultural Practices in Western India," Mittal Publications, 2012.
"Rural Development in India," Ministry of Rural Development, Go