Introduction / History
The Makrani originally came from the Makrani region of Pakistan. There is a Makrani subgroup that is associated with Pakistan's Baloch population. They were brought to Gujarat as mercenary soldiers in the service of Muslim rulers. The Makrani are proud of their military tradition. The primary language of the Makrani is Gujarati. Many also speak Urdu.
Where Are they Located?
India's Makrani population is in Gujarat, though there are others in nearby Pakistan.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Today most Makrani work in agriculture although some still serve in the military and as law enforcement officers. Others work in trade and business.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Makrani marry within their gotra or clan. Monogamy is the rule although having more than one wife is legal. Families arrange marriages with the consent of the young people. The newly married couple usually lives with or near the groom's parent. Muslim priests officiate at important life ceremonies such as births, weddings and funerals. Caste councils called jamats promote the Makrani interests and settle legal disputes.
The Makrani are not vegetarians. They eat meat with the exception of pork, which is forbidden for Muslims. Their main foods are rice, wheat, lentils, dairy products and vegetables.
The Makrani are Sunnis, the largest branch of Islam. They attempt to follow the teachings of the Koran and the prophet Muhammad. They believe that by obeying the Five Pillars of Islam that they will earn the favor of Allah. The Makrani pray five times a day facing towards Mecca, fast for the month of Ramadan and attend mosques on Friday. They will also make a pilgrimage to Mecca once in their lifetime if they have the means. The two main yearly holidays of the Makrani are Eid al Fitr, the breaking of the monthly fast and Eid al Adha, the feast of the sacrifice.
What Are Their Needs?
The Makrani people in India need to hear the life-changing message of Jesus in a way they can understand. They need to see the love and mercy of Christ lived out in practical ways before them. They must realize that only through Jesus or Isa will God forgive their sins.
Pray the Makrani people in India will gain no satisfaction from their traditional religion but will instead hunger to know the God who loves them and who has revealed Himself in His son, Jesus the Messiah.
Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Makrani people in India and Pakistan.
Pray for a movement of Mahrani households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.
Scripture Prayers for the Makrani (Muslim traditions) in India.