Jhalo Malo in Bangladesh

Jhalo Malo in Bangladesh

"Malo" is an Arabic word that means "boatman," and many of them live in the Bangladeshi states of Dhaka, Rajshahi and Khulna. This Dalit people group can be separated into two major divisions: of Bengali and non-Bengali identity. The traditional means of survival for the Malo people is fishing. When fishing is good, they can earn enough money to provide for themselves, but when fishing is harder than usual, they often starve. Some of them also work as landless agricultural laborers.

Ministry Obstacles

These Hindus are devoted to Vishnu (the Hindu preserver god and his avatars: Rama and Krishna). It will be very hard for them to give Jesus Christ their full devotion. They also believe that performing good works will give them moksha, or freedom from reincarnation.

Outreach Ideas

The Jhalo Malo people have a need for quality education for their children. They also need modern medicine and improved job training and opportunities. Believers with the right skills can help them with these practical needs while also showing them the way to the cross.

Scripture Focus

"Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your house, the holiness of your temple!"  Psalm 65:4

Scripture Prayer

Pray for many from this people group to find joy in the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray that the Holy Spirit would show them how futile idolatry is and that their good works are fruitless. Pray for the physical and spiritual safety of the Malo people as they encounter all-powerful landowners' discrimination and demonic forces. Pray that their elders would turn to Christ, the only one who can truly give rebirth. Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ.