Balai (Hindu traditions) in India

Introduction / History

The Balai or Balahi live in the central states of India. "Balai" means weaver in Hindi; weaver was their traditional role. They have low to middle status in Hinduism.

Though they originally came from northern India, most now live in live in the Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Many also live in the Capital Territory of Delhi.

The primary language of the Balai is Hindi. They also speak other regional languages such as Dhundari, Nimadi, Mewari and Malvi.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Some Balai have risen in Indian society to careers as masons, carpenters, and business owners. Women often work as domestic servants to supplement family income. Unfortunately, many Balai are still unable to read.

Most Balai people are poor. Although they can eat meat except for beef and pork, they seldom can afford it. Their diet consists of rice, grains, and whatever roots and vegetables they can obtain.

Balai do not marry members of their families such as cousins. They do marry within their gotra or clan and community. Brahmin priests perform the weddings. Adult marriage is the general practice. Brides go to live with the groom's family. Sons inherit family property. The Balai live in multi-caste villages in their own areas. They bury their dead.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Almost all Balai are Hindus. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Balai give special service and attention to Durga, the mother-warrior goddess. At one time they performed animal sacrifices to her. They visit her temples and travel to her shrines. Hindu texts say that all weavers are descendants of Rishi Mrikanda, the father of modern weaving.

Balai celebrate the traditional Hindu holidays such a Holi, the festival of colors, Diwali, the festival of lights and Navratri, the festival of the beginning of spring.

A tiny minority of Balai are Christians.

What Are Their Needs?

The Balai need to hear the life-changing gospel of Christ in a way they can understand. They need to see that true spiritual wealth is found in Jesus, the only savior of all nations. They need help in becoming literate so they can raise their position in Indian society.

Prayer Points

Pray that the small group of Balai Christians would be built up and trained to share the gospel with their brothers and sisters.
Pray the Lord sends Christian workers to live among the Balai and demonstrate the love and care of our Father and Savior.
Pray that God is honored by the planting of many Bible-believing churches in the Balai community.

Text Source:   Joshua Project