Hande Jogi in India

Introduction / History

The Hande Jogi people live mainly in Karnataka in southern India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Already living in abject poverty, the Handi Jogi pig herders face more than just financial hardship. Other people groups who view them as human garbage discriminate against them. Their occupation, pig rearing, is considered not only shameful, but a source of disease. Their status is about as low as it gets in a Hindu society. The Bible says that God views the Handi Jogi quite differently. It says He created all mankind and gave them their uniqueness. God has a purpose for this people group in his kingdom.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Hande Jogi 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 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.

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?

These people need to put their hope and identity in the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Handi Jogi to hear how valuable they are to the Creator of all things.

Pray for them to learn that God sent his only son so they could have eternal life with his purpose.

Pray for loving workers to go to the Hande Jogi people this decade.

Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching families that result in thousands of new disciples who share their faith with others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project