Bhansala in Pakistan
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Bhansala |
| Country: | Pakistan |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 8,900 |
| World Population: | 321,900 |
| Primary Language: | Sindhi |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.00 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Hindu - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Kutchhi Bhanusali live throughout the western states of India, especially Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat. A small number live over the international border in Pakistan's Sindh Province. Those in Pakistan speak Sindhi.
What Are Their Lives Like?
The Bansala people primarily lead an agrarian lifestyle, cultivating crops such as wheat, rice and sugarcane. They also rear livestock, including cattle and buffalo, which contribute to their diet and income. Their villages consist of mud-brick houses, often organized around extended family compounds. Community life centers on farming activities and social gatherings, with traditional music, dance and festivals playing a vital role in their cultural expression. The Bansala value family ties and communal cooperation, which are essential for their daily survival. The Bhanusali are endogamous, meaning they prefer to marry within their community or clan. Marriage is arranged through the parents. On the death of the father, sons and daughters inherit the property.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Bhanusali 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.
What Are Their Needs?
The Bansala people face various challenges, including limited access to modern education and healthcare. Improved infrastructure, such as roads and sanitation facilities, is crucial for their development. Economic opportunities beyond agriculture, such as small-scale industries and vocational training, would enhance their livelihoods and reduce poverty.
Prayer Points
Pray that gospel recordings and the JESUS Film will lead the Bhanusali to begin their own movement to Christ. Pray that God will give them dreams and visions leading them to the Savior. Pray for intercessors and dedicated workers.