People
Who they are
The Badahala are a traditional community in Sri Lanka, integrated into Sinhalese society and united by the local language and customs. Historically recognized for their manual skills and close connection to craftwork, they live scattered across the island’s villages and rural centers. Their identity is marked by respect for community traditions and strong loyalty to the culture of their ancestors.
Where they live
1
Country
124K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Sri Lanka Minimally reached
|
100%
|
123.000 |
How they live
Community life centers on making pottery for everyday use and small-scale farming, as well as service work in growing urban areas. Families maintain strong bonds of cooperation in the villages, where pottery techniques are passed down from parents to children. Rice and curry and family gatherings around the clay kiln are part of their simple, hardworking daily life.
What they believe
Most follow Theravada Buddhism, which is deeply intertwined with Sinhalese identity. In daily life, people attend local temples, pay homage and make offerings at household shrines, and seek protection from spirits through traditional rituals. Faith is seen as a shared heritage, and turning away from it can provoke strong family disapproval.
The Bible in this people's language
A people only truly understands the gospel when they hear it in the language of their heart. See how far the translation has come.
Sinhala
Complete Bible
- Translation started Done
- Portions Done
- New Testament Done
- Whole Bible Current stage
Audio recordings Available
Jesus Film Available
Translation data: Joshua Project.
Gospel progress among the unreached
Christians (all traditions)7.5%
Needs
Rapid modernization and the arrival of mass-produced plastic utensils threaten the community’s traditional income. There is a need for access to vocational education, better sanitation, and credit for small-scale artisans. Spiritually, they need to experience God’s liberating love beyond the social pressure to conform religiously.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo desenvolvimento socioeconômico e valorização do trabalho artesanal das famílias badahalas.
Por oportunidades de ouvir a mensagem de Jesus na própria língua do coração.
Pelo testemunho fiel e perseverante dos cristãos cingaleses junto a essa comunidade.
Pelo surgimento de comunidades cristãs vibrantes e acolhedoras entre os Badahala.
Por revelação da graça e paz de Cristo aos líderes e famílias das aldeias.
Pray for Badahala
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
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