Banchada in India

Introduction / History

Traditionally their women were engaged in prostitution. This practice is declining as Banchada find other ways to make a living. Many Banchada are unable to read and write. During the British colonial period the Banchada were classified as a criminal caste. The Banchada are classified as a scheduled caste so they get special consideration for government jobs and university admissions.

The primary language of the Banchada is Hindi. Many resources are available in Hindi including a complete Bible, radio programs and the JESUS Film. Banchada people live India's central state of Madhya Pradesh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Today the Bancada have adopted the professions of playing musical instruments and agricultural labor. Most Banchada do not own the land they work. Some of them have received a college education and now work for the government and in businesses.

Banchada couples tend to have many children. Child labor is common among them. Children often quit school after a few years to help their family make a living. Some Banchada young people are leaving their villages and moving to Indian cities in hope of a better life.

When a Banchada woman is married, she wears a ring on her toe rather than her finger. The eldest Banchada son succeeds the father as the head of the family. He is responsible for taking care of elderly relatives.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Banchada 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. 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 Banchada need new job and literacy skills. Rural Banchada need modern medicine and clean water. Most of all the Banchada need to hear and obey the gospel of Jesus Christ. He alone can forgive their sins and give them abundant life.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Banchada people will hear and respond favorably to the gospel of Christ.

Pray the Lord provides better jobs for the Banchada.

Pray for the Lord to send loving workers to the Banchada people.

Pray for their hearts of the Banchada to seek and find the only Savior.

Pray that Banchada will tune in to Hindi Christian radio programs.

Ask the Lord to raise up a growing church among the Banchada in this decade.

Text Source:   Joshua Project