Kandera   KAHN-deh-rah

Kandera of India are both unengaged and unreached. Initially, they were a relatively small group known for their skill in archery. Over time, they expanded their expertise to include the operation and production of artillery. The term "Kandera" is derived from "Kandir," associated with arrows, while "Hawaidar" refers to a maker of fireworks. The community also has a historical connection to cotton ginning, a profession some Kanderas chose due to challenges in securing employment in native armies during the Mughal invasion. They are currently divided into 36 clans. Their community is split between Hindu and Muslim segments.

Ministry Obstacles

There are few, if any, Christian believers in the Kandera homeland. They need Christ followers to go to them as his ambassadors in hard ground like Rajasthan. This can be seen as a barrier to making the initial penetration against the entrenched Hindu and Muslim practices.

Scripture Focus

"Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."  Psalm 73:25-26

Scripture Prayer

Pray for many from today’s people to know that they must have no other God but the Lord.

Prayer Focus

Pray for hearts to turn towards this unreached people group and that God will send culturally sensitive missionaries who will show them the way to the cross. Pray for a movement to Christ to flourish among this people group soon. Pray for the Kandera to be blessed with peace, joy, and spiritual prosperity as they follow Jesus Christ.