Introduction / History

The Shinligrar people are also called the Saikhom. They are a Scheduled Caste, which means they have low status in Hindu society.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Shinligrar people have always been tanners and shoemakers. Working with leather, a "dead" substance, means they have low status, so they live in segregated communities.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Shinligrar 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.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like 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?

Traditional low status and contempt from others has meant the Shinligrar people have not had adequate healthcare or educational opportunities. The government of India is providing "reservations" for some to get the education and jobs they need, but this may not affect the Shinligrar people. NGOs are providing for medical needs for some of them.

Prayer Points

Pray for a movement of Jesus to heal and strengthen Shinligrar communities.

Pray for the Shinligrar people to understand and embrace that Jesus wants to bless their families and neighborhoods.

Pray for Holy Spirit anointed believers from the Shinligrar people to change their society from within.

Pray for a movement in which the Holy Spirit leads and empowers disciples to make more disciples.

Scripture Prayers for the Shinligar in India.