The Paraiyan name comes from the Tamil word for drum. The Paraiyan are known for making drums and playing them at weddings and Hindu festivals. Most Paraiyan make their living in agriculture and animal husbandry. For the most part, they work on land owned by higher castes. To supplement their incomes, they make baskets and mats. A few Paraiyan have been able to attend universities and become physicians, politicians and administrators. The Paraiyan marry within their people group. Families arrange marriages with the consent of the young couple. Parents encourage their sons to get at least a primary education. Girls often must quit school after a few years to help their families.

There are spiritual impediments that keep these people from embracing the savior as many other Tamil speakers have done. There are plenty of Tamil-speaking congregations in both India and Sri Lanka that can lead the Paraiyan to the cross.

Pray that God establishes Paraiyan believers in the faith and uses them to share the gospel with their families and friends.
Pray that Hindu-background believers build relationships with the Paraiyan and help meet their spiritual and physical needs.
Pray for a movement to Jesus to multiply among Paraiyan families and communities.
Pray that the Paraiyans will have visions and dreams of Jesus.

Scripture Prayers for the Paraiyan (Hindu traditions) in Sri Lanka.