Introduction / History
Most of the Hazra people in West Bengal are Muslim, but there are some who are Hindu. Other Hindus in this community live further east in Bangladesh.

What are their lives like?
Most Hazra people are farmers or agricultural workers. They are noted for their skills in basket weaving, pottery and craftsmanship. Though they are a small community, they have managed to retain their own folklore.

What are their beliefs?
Hinduism is the ancient religion of South Asia. It is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama’s birthday.

What are their needs?
Hindu Hazra people need the Holy Spirit to direct them into a loving relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points
Pray for Hazra culture to be renewed and enhanced by a work of the Holy Spirit and shaped into a God-centered and God-honoring mold.

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among their family and community leaders to seek his face and enjoy his blessings.

Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a disciple making movement among the Hazra people.

Pray that soon the Hazra people will have faith that will lead them to live honorable lives that will draw others to the savior.