Introduction / History

The word Patni has to do with ferrying by boat. They have low status in Hindu society. Some of the Patni live in Manipur. In Tripura the Patni live mainly in the western district. In Assam some of the Patni, in addition to speaking Bengali, can speak Hindi and Assamese.

What Are Their Lives Like?

In West Bengal they work on ferries. In Tripura they work as day laborers and others pull rickshaws. Most are landowners who work in farming, though others are day laborers. They have a low literacy level and so the gospel message will need to be presented in oral form. They avoid marrying relatives on the side of the father for five generations.

What Are Their Beliefs?

There are both Muslim and Hindu Patni people. Hindus don't have a set of theological beliefs like Christians or Muslims, nor do they have a specific set of gods they must worship. People worship the gods they believe will benefit them. Hindus like the Patni, who have low status, hope to be reincarnated into a higher caste after they die.

What Are Their Needs?

The Patni people need a relationship with Jesus Christ that will transform and bless their community.

Prayer Points

Pray that gospel recordings and the JESUS Film will lead the Patni to Jesus Christ. Pray that Indian believers will help them begin their own disciple making movement.

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