Introduction / History

They are a Scheduled Caste.

Where Are they Located?

This Hindu people group lives in Rajasthan, a state in western India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Santia people are extremely poor in every way. Their way of survival is not known. They eat mainly maise jowar and tea. Consequently, their health is not good.

Marriage is arranged by parents during childhood, but not finalized until the girl reaches puberty. They are usually monogamous. Males make decisions, and women have little say in the matter.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Santia people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain moksha or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. 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 many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

The main yearly holidays of Hindu Santia people are Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

Although audio, visual, and written Bible resources are available in Hindi, their spoken language, they remain unreached and unengaged with the truth of the gospel. They need workers. Their greatest need is to understand the infinite love of Almighty God for them, and His provisional payment of the penalty for their sins. They need to be set free spiritually by the Son! Also, their medical, social, and economical needs are unmet.

Prayer Points

Pray for God's kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Hindu Santia people.
Pray for a movement of Santia households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Santia people to the arms of Jesus.
Pray for workers who are filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit to go to the Santia people.

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

References

https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/18021/IN