People
Who they are
The Gattara are a Sinhalese community in Sri Lanka with deep roots in the island’s rural history. Speakers of Sinhala, they share the customs, festivals, and heritage of the wider Sinhalese people, while retaining social distinctions arising from their traditional lineage. They live in rural villages, working mainly on the land. Their identity combines the simplicity of agricultural life with community traditions passed down through generations.
Where they live
1
Country
830K
Population
| Country | Share of the people | Population |
|---|---|---|
Sri Lanka Minimally reached
|
100%
|
826.000 |
How they live
Gattara daily life centers on agriculture, with rice cultivation and paid farm work providing their main sources of livelihood. The extended family plays a central role, with relatives sharing resources and responsibilities in everyday life. Typical meals include rice with vegetable and fish curries. On special occasions such as Sinhalese New Year and the Vesak festival, the community gathers to prepare festive dishes, such as rice cooked in coconut milk, strengthening solidarity among neighbors.
What they believe
The vast majority of the Gattara profess Theravada Buddhism, a central element of their culture and worldview. Their devotion is expressed through seeking spiritual merit, making offerings, and taking part in ceremonies at temples, which serve as village gathering places. Alongside this, traditional practices and astrology remain part of important moments in family life, such as wedding celebrations and everyday protective rituals.
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)6.7%
Needs
Families face economic vulnerability and limited access to education and health services. Young people seek new career paths but encounter barriers to social mobility. Spiritually, there is almost no Christian presence in this community, and there is a lack of people who can share the message of Jesus Christ in ways that are understandable and connected to their cultural reality.
What to pray for
Intercede for this people
Pelo fortalecimento de oportunidades educacionais e de trabalho digno para as famílias gattara no Sri Lanka.
Pela presença de cristãos sinceros que compartilhem o evangelho em linguagem clara e respeitosa entre eles.
Por revelação do amor e da graça de Cristo a quem busca paz e consolo em suas práticas diárias.
Pelo surgimento de comunidades de fé saudáveis e plenamente contextualizadas no meio do povo gattara.
Pray for Gattara
Intercede for this people alongside Christians around the world.
Open the Prayer Calendar