The Hindu Banjara, who are known by 53 different names, primarily speak Lambadi or Lamani and Banjara They are the largest nomadic group in India though a smaller number live in Pakistan. The Banjara's name is derived from the word bajika, which means trade or business, and from banji, meaning peddlers pack. Many consider them descended from Jews who were exiled to Egypt, as they came to India from Egypt and Persia. Some believe they were expelled from their homeland by Muslim invaders.
Historically the Banjara were nomadic and kept cattle, traded salt and transported goods. Now most have settled down to farming and raising cattle or grain. Others still trade in salt and other commodities. In some regions, a few hold white collar positions or work as government servants. They also sew intricately embroidered colorful clothes with shining discs and beads. They make ornaments and ornate jewelry, which the women also wear.
Not only do the Banjara usually have more than one occupation, but they also use additional skills to supplement their incomes, depending on the societies needs at the time. Some specialize in making items such as broomsticks, iron tools and needles. They may also repair tools or work with stone. Others believe that one does not have to work for a living and gain income by "religious begging."
They sing and wear special make-up while begging in the name of a specific Hindu deity. The Banjara love music, playing folk instruments and dancing. The Banjar are also acrobats, magicians, tricksters, story-tellers and fortune-tellers. Because they are poor, they eat what they have grown in their gardens along with dairy products. Many live in grass huts, often with extended families.
Banjara families are closely knit, having minimal relationships with other castes. The role of leader of the community is passed down to the leader's son. All biological sons get an equal share from parental property. Marriages may be arranged, especially to avoid the union of relatives to three generations back. Married women wear ivory armbands.
Banjara women are subservient to their husbands. They do housework and have few rights. Men take the lead with festivals and devotional songs. While women work, the men spend the money from their entertainment on liquor. She cannot refer to her husband by name out of respect and submission.
The majority of Banjara in India are Hindu; some have combined Hindu practices with their own animistic beliefs. Banjara often follow folk beliefs and mixed with these religious beliefs are many taboos (things one must never do.) One Hindu taboo is that a woman's hair must not be combed or let down long in the presence of men. Another is that a woman should not pass in front of a man who is sitting, but rather behind him. Chastity is very important. In the past, some girls who were involved in prostitution were buried alive. Unmarried girls are still discouraged from going into the cities, and they usually wear veils over their hands and feet while sitting with strangers.
Many Banjara in India live in poverty. Often the only clothes a Banjara owns are the ones on his back. An unsanitary lifestyle has created many physical needs among them. Most children do not attend schools. The Banjara do not have a written language, so depending on whatever state of India they are in, if they read, it must be in that states' script.
Pray that the Banjara, rejected by society, would feel accepted by God.
Ask God to provide creative ways to evangelize the Banjara through music and the arts.
Pray for witnessing opportunities to Banjara children.
Pray for a Banjara movement to Christ in both India and Pakistan.
Scripture Prayers for the Banjara (Hindu traditions) in India.
https://www.dw.com/en/a-glimpse-into-indias-nomadic-banjara-community/g-55719023
https://www.indiaprofile.com/lifestyle/banjaras.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banjara
https://www.indianmirror.com/tribes/banjaratribes.html
| Profile Source: Joshua Project |
