Introduction / History
The Vania people are also called Bania or Mahajan. The word Vania is derived from Vaniji, which means "trader" in Sanskrit. The Vania community has gotras or clans. Many of their clan names are based on the names of the place they are from. Though most Banias are in India, there are a fair number of them in other nearby countries including Afghanistan. Those in Afghanistan are Muslim, which is unusual for this people group with Hindu roots.

What are their lives like?
Money lending, business, trade, jewelry-making, and agriculture are the traditional occupations of the Vania. Floor painting and folk songs represent the Vania's art and culture. Social interactions and personal relationships among the Banias revolve around extended families and caste connections. This is complicated by the fact these Banias are Muslim, which separates them from the Hindu Banias.

What are their beliefs?
Most Vanias are Hindu by religion, but those in Afghanistan are Sunni Muslims. At one time in their history, they were converted to Islam by Muslim saints. PrayerPray for a Disciple Making Movement among the Banias in Afghanistan in the 2020s. Pray for them to have hearts that long for true spiritual nourishment that can only come from Jesus Christ. Pray for the Lord to pave the way for the gospel to move among the Banias in Afghanistan. Pray for Bania community leaders to open the door to allowing Jesus Christ to bless their families.