Introduction / History

The Lahaula or Lahuli Tinan - who are counted under the Tibetan nationality in China - are also known as Bhotia. The term Bhotia generally refers to people of Tibetan background. The name Lahaula is also a generic term used to describe the inhabitants of the Lahul District. This region was part of the Ladakhi Kingdom in the tenth century. Border clashes in the area in the 1950s and 1960s resulted in the Chinese seizing a large tract of land from India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Lahaula men are skillful merchants and traders. Lahaula women are known for their independence. Since their husbands are usually off on trading expeditions, the women feel free to take more than one husband. The men trade salt, grain and wool to other people in the Himalayan region and in the process sometimes become quite wealthy.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The strength of Tibetan Buddhism in northern India depends to a great extent on the prosperity and generosity of the Lahaula. They feel spiritually secure because of the religious merit they gain by dispensing charity and generously supporting the temples.

Prayer Points

Pray the Lahaula would no longer be hidden away from the influence of Christ.

Pray for many of them to make disciples who will make even more disciples.

Ask God to raise up Lahaula people who are more desirous to know the truth than to stay on the broad road.

Ask God to send loving, committed workers to the Lahaula in the near future.

Scripture Prayers for the Lahaula in India.

References

Operation China, Asia Harvest, Copyrighted © Used with permission