Balija Bolla in India
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Balija Bolla |
| Country: | India |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 83,000 |
| World Population: | 83,000 |
| Primary Language: | Telugu |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 0.03 % |
| 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
According to legend Balija Bolla people are a weaver caste that originated when their god Chamundeshwari threw rice into the sacrificial fire from which a host of warriors sprang out. Rulers appointed Balija families to supervise provinces as Nayaks (governors, commanders). They were known as warrior merchants; powerful and wealthy, who were highly respected. They were primarily tax collectors and merchants.
Where Are they Located?
This Hindu people group is scattered throughout southern India.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Today, Balija people are farmers, traders and craftsmen of bangles, and pearl and coral ornaments. They are one of the most socially and economically backward communities in India. They are scattered, known by different names. Since they admit people of other castes, they are regarded as a mixed community. They have been oppressed for generations.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Balija Bolla people are Hindu. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods whom they believe will give them favor and protection, much like a business transaction. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews.
What Are Their Needs?
Although audio, visual, and written Bible resources are available in Telugu, their spoken language, they remain unreached with the truth of the gospel. Their greatest need is to understand the infinite love of Almighty God for them, and His provisional payment of the penalty for their sins. They need to be freed by the Prince of Peace, so they can be free indeed.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Balija Bolla culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit and shaped into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Balija Bolla family and community leaders to seek His face and enjoy His blessings.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a disciple-making movement among the Balija Bolla people.
Pray that soon the Balija Bolla people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the Savior.