Sonjhara in India

Introduction / History

Traditionally the Sonjhara panned for gold in rivers, but the gold ran out and they had to make changes. They have been associated with the Gond tribe, but they are not the same. This group has low status in Hindu society.
They live in the central states of Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Odisha.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Sonjhara people are usually farmers and livestock herders today.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Sonjhara 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.
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?

Like all other peoples of the world, this people group needs the blessings and divine guidance that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to bless this community economically and spiritually.
Ask God to raise up Sonjhara people who are more desirous to know the truth than to stay on the broad road.
Ask God to send loving, committed workers to the Sonjhara in the near future.
Pray the Sonjhara would no longer be hidden away from the influence of Christ.
Pray for many of them to make disciples who will make even more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project