Introduction / History

Machhi refers to fish, and the Machhi people have a history of being fishermen. They have three subgroups: the Sial, Wajan and Sanjri.
Most of the Muslim Machhi live in Pakistan, but there are some in northwest India as well.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Inherited property is usually shared by the sons, but the widow receives a small share of her husband's property. Glass bangles, nose-pin and toe-rings are the symbols of marriage for women.

They perform their birth, circumcision, marriage and death rituals according to Islamic rules.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They are Sunni Muslims. Their sacred specialists are from other Muslim communities. Birth rituals, circumcision, marriage and death rituals are performed according to Islamic rules, along with some Hindu ritual observances.

What Are Their Needs?

Pakistan does not offer welcome to Christian missionaries, not by any means. Dangers are real and numerous. Spiritual opposition to the gospel is intense. Prayer is probably what is most needed for the peoples of Pakistan; sustained, informed, and focused prayer.

Prayer Points

Pray the Macchi community will seek a relationship with the lord of Lords.
Pray they will begin to search for a savior from their sins, one who not only gives them assurance of eternal life but helps them with the day-to-day problems of this life.
Pray for loving, Holy Spirit anointed workers.

Scripture Prayers for the Machhi (Muslim traditions) in India.