Bania Modh in India

Introduction / History

The Banias originated over 5,000 years ago in Gujarat and Rajasthan, and they are also called Vania or Mahajan. Their name is derived from Vaniji, which means "trader" in Sanskrit, an ancient South Asian language.

Of the four major varnas (caste clusters), Banias are in the third one, the Vaishyas. This caste cluster has always been about trade, business and money lending. Throughout history they were traders of grain and spices.

Despite their high incomes, the Banias have only modest status in the Hindu caste pyramid. They resent the higher two varnas, the Brahmins and the Kshatriyas, and thus Banias have often been leaders in caste reform movements. Mahatma Gandhi is one example, but there have been many others throughout India's long history.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The wealthy Modh people deal in real estate and jewelry. They once lived only in the northern part of Gujarat state in a small town called Modhera, which derived its name from the Modheshwari Mata temple and the community around it. The Modh are now dispersed throughout India and other countries.

Some of the more famous Modhs are Mohandas Ghandi, popularly known as the Mahatma Ghandi, and Mukesh Ambani, the chairman and managing director of the Reliance Conglomerate, whom Forbes identifies as one of the wealthiest men in the world.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Nearly all Modh Banias claim the Hindu religion, but as merchants they have chosen gods that reflect their profession. They worship the god of wealth, the god of good fortune and the god of money. The rupee (Indian currency) is sacred with the Bania, and they use old coins for religious ceremonies. Ganesh (the god who helps overcome obstacles) and Lakshmi (the goddess of wealth) are among their favorites. Many are devoted to Vishnu and Shrinathji. Some are Jains, a reform movement of Hinduism.

What Are Their Needs?

Banias need a spiritual transformation that will bring them to the point where they want to follow the ways of Jesus and abandon the old ways that leave them spiritually empty.

Prayer Points

Pray that the Modh Banias will see that the only true wealth are the spiritual riches gained through a loving relationship with Jesus Christ.

Pray that Christ's disciples will be called to work among them and share Christ in a culturally relevant way.

Pray for a disciple making movement to emerge among every Bania community, blessing them for eternity.

Pray for the Lord to give Modh Bania leaders dreams and visions that will draw them to the King of kings.

Text Source:   Joshua Project