Thakuri in Nepal
Photo Source:
Anonymous
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project.
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| People Name: | Thakuri |
| Country: | Nepal |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 489,000 |
| World Population: | 527,000 |
| Primary Language: | Nepali |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 1.57 % |
| 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
Though the centuries the Thakuri people have held high status both in Nepal and in India. There were Thakuri kings in Nepal as early as the 600s.
Though opinions differ, people have associated the Thakuris with Rajputs and Chhetris, both forward caste groups in the Hindu hierarchy. In order to preserve their wealth and power, they married near cousins for centuries.
Where Are they Located?
Most Thakuri people live in western Nepal and India's northeastern states. There are some scattered Thakuris in other parts of India as well.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Today many Thakuris are landlords who control the agricultural means of production. Those who live at lower elevations make a subsistence living. Speaking to other Thakuris, one blogger said that they need to adapt to today's world by working harder. He regards his people as lazy, prone to anger, and willing to spend their fast-depleting wealth on parties. Perhaps he is not giving his people enough credit; the Thakuris still hold many high positions even when they migrate to other parts of the world like England.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Thakuris are almost entirely Hindu. They trust in spiritual powers and spirit beings. Rituals are important to high caste Hindus. To them following caste obligations and customs is the best way to live a spiritually-fulfilling life.
What Are Their Needs?
Like other Hindus, the Thakuri need to find their way to the only Spirit Being who is both loving and sovereign over all. Someone needs to show these high caste Hindus the way to the cross.
Prayer Points
Pray for Nepali believers to be energized in their efforts to reach all the people groups of Nepal, including the Thakuris, with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Pray for the Thakuri people to be ready and responsive when they hear the gospel.
Pray for a Holy Spirit empowered discipleship movement among Thakuri people in both India and Nepal.