Bairagi (Hindu traditions) in India

Bairagi (Hindu traditions) in India

pronounced: bay-RAH-ghee

The history of the Bairagi commences with Ramanuja, who lived in the eleventh and twelfth centuries, and taught in the southern part of India. A proper Bairagi is one whose principal deity is either Vishnu or any of his incarnations, like Rama and Krishna. A mark (tilak) on the forehead and ear are their identification marks. They worship Gouranga as their family deity and Kali, Manasa and Durga as village deities. They are indifferent to the education of girls.

Ministry Obstacles

To follow Christ is to risk disturbing community harmony within this Hindu community.

Outreach Ideas

Much sustained, focused prayer is needed to prepare the hearts of the Bairagi community to understand and receive the good news of Jesus of Nazareth.

Scripture Focus

Like our ancestors, we have sinned. We have done wrong! We have acted wickedly! Ps 106:6

Scripture Prayer

Pray that many family leaders from this people group will understand that their people are sinful just like the Israelis, and that they need to seek the Lord for forgiveness.

Prayer Focus

Pray the few believers among the Bairagi people will grow in sharing and discussing God's Word with their families and friends. Pray for those that the Lord will soon call to himself. Pray they will be zealous to learn of Christ, and that they will be sent teachers and pastors to help them. Pray they will live holy lives that honor Christ. Pray for the Hindu Bairagi community to make schooling for both boys and girls a priority.