Mallah (Hindu traditions) in India

Mallah (Hindu traditions) in India

pronounced: mah-LAH

The Mallah people of the state of Uttar Pradesh usually go by the name of Nishad, which refers to a character from the Hindu myth the Ramayana. Nishad was a boatman who ferried the gods Ram, Sita and Laskman across the river. From this tale, the Mallahs consider their occupation as boatmen along the holy Ganga river carrying Hindu devotees as a holy occupation. They take pride in their heritage, even though they are considered a backward caste. They are strict about marrying within their own caste. They are poor and mostly illiterate.

Ministry Obstacles

The Mallahs live along the major waterways of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal. These are some of the least reached states of India.

Outreach Ideas

Believers can befriend the Mallahs and tell them stories from the Bible. When the Bible is presented in a non-threatening way, it is more acceptable to Hindu peoples.

Scripture Focus

The rulers of the world have gathered together with the people of the God of Abraham. For all the kings of the earth belong to God. He is highly honored everywhere. Ps 47:9

Scripture Prayer

Pray that the Lord will find honor and worship from today’s people group. May they understand that they belong to Him.

Prayer Focus

As far as we know, none of the Mallahs have embraced Christ, so pray that this will soon change. * Pray for a chain reaction of families reaching families that results in thousands of new believers who share their faith with others. * Pray for grace and truth expanding into the entire Mallah society as all believers learn to love others. * Pray that churches and believers will bless their entire people group in such a way that God's love will change the Mallahs like yeast changes dough.