One source considers "Bediya" to be the generic name of a number of vagrant nomadic groups. Traditionally, a large section of the Bedia were reported to be earning a livelihood from prostitution and dancing, however, this has largely been discontinued. The Bedia in Uttar Pradesh speak Awadhi and read and write in Devanagari.
They now work in agriculture. Women help a lot by earning money. They believe in education but have a low literacy level, so the gospel will need to be presented in oral forms. They have good relations with the landlords in the region.
The Bedia worship Hindu deities like Thakur, Shiva, Parvati, Hanuman, Chamunda, Kali and Sitala and Khermata, a local deity. Unlike most Hindus they bury their dead rather than cremate them.
The Bedia people need better education and a higher standard of living. They need opportunities to enter into new professions.
Pray that Indian believers will lead them to a movement to Jesus Christ. Pray the few followers of Jesus among the Bedia will have pastors and teachers to help them grow to become faithful disciples. Pray for spiritual hunger that will lead them to the only Savior.
Scripture Prayers for the Beriya (Hindu traditions) in India.
| Profile Source: Keith Carey |
