Introduction / History

Traditionally the Lavana people were salt peddlers. Some claim to have Rajput ancestry, which would give them high status in this Hindu culture. Most likely they are related to the Banjaras who were traditionally nomadic peddlers. This would explain why they tend to speak the Banjara language, Lambani. This people group lives scattered throughout several states of India especially in the north. The Lavana in Gujarat speak in Banjari and read and write in Gujarati. In Himachal Pradesh they speak Banjari and read and write in Devanagari. In Chandigarh, Punjab and Goa they speak Banjari. In Tamil Nadu they speak Lambadi.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many work in cattle trading and agriculture. Some are day laborers working on other people's farms for hire. They do not allow the divorced and widows to marry again. On the death of the father, sons inherit the property with the youngest son getting a higher share. A caste council looks after their needs.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Lavana 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?

The Lavana people need the abundant life that only Jesus offers.

Prayer Points

Pray the council leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead their community into a disciple making movement.
Pray for spiritual hunger so they will seek and find the Lord.
Pray that gospel recordings and the JESUS Film will become easily available to them.

Scripture Prayers for the Labana (Hindu traditions) in India.