Introduction / History

The Targala (or Bhoviya) claim they are the descendants of an ex-communicated Brahmin community. They have three subgroups, the Nayak, Bhojak (or Bhojai) and Voyas. These names are also used as surnames. Each subgroup is divided into a number of clans named after their ancestral homes.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They allow for inter-subgroup marriages, but they strictly adhere to community endogamy (marrying only within the caste). Vermilion, bracelets and toe-rings are symbols of marriage for women. They are Hindu, and their community goddess is Bahucharamata or Ambamata. They worship Bhubaneswari and Suleswari or Sulgamata as village deities. Traditionally, they accept food and water from higher castes such as the Brahmin and Kshatriya, but not from the lower castes.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Targala 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?

The Targala people need a John 10:10 blessing: the abundant life Jesus offers those who are willing to submit to his lordship.

Prayer Points

Please pray for believers in the state of Gujarat, that they will live holy lives, honoring the Lord and being zealous in their service to him. Pray they will be protected from those who would harm them and their witness.
Pray the government of Gujarat will actively work to protect all religious minorities.
There are Christian believers in Gujarat, in other people groups. Pray these believers will develop a heart to take the message of Jesus throughout their state.

Scripture Prayers for the Targala in India.

References