Introduction / History

Most of the Nashya Shaikh community lives in northern West Bengal state though a smaller number are in nearby Bihar. They speak Bengali and they are solidly Muslim.

They are an offshoot of either the Mech or the Koch Rajbongshi communities. Their conversion to Islam started with two local chiefs and it took between 200-300 years It was frowned upon at one time.

What Are Their Lives Like?

For the most part the Nashya Shaikh community blends in with other Bengali speaking peoples in this part of India.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Nashya Shaikh people are Sunni Muslims, but they are not devout. They retain many cultural and religious traits from their Hindu past. Commonly they are non-practicing Muslims, but because of globalization, some are drawn to a more orthodox form of Islam.

In most of the Muslim world, people depend on the spirit world for their daily needs since they regard Allah as too distant. Allah may determine their eternal salvation, but the spirits determine how well we live in our daily lives. For that reason, they must appease the spirits. They often use charms and amulets to help them with spiritual forces.

What Are Their Needs?

Like people everywhere, the Nashya Shaikh people need to allow the loving savior to direct their lives. They need his forgiveness for sin.

Prayer Points

Pray the Nashya Shaikh would see they can enjoy abundant life if they put their trust in Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Lord to intervene in their families, calling people to his side and blessing them in every way.
Pray for loving workers to disciple many.
Pray for their hearts to be drawn to the Lord of lords.
Pray for a movement to Christ to thrive in Nashya Shaikh communities.

Scripture Prayers for the Shaikh Nashya in India.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nashya_Shaikh