Christian workers in northern Bihar have been preaching the gospel in the Hindi language for more than 80 years. There are very few Maithil Christians. Tharus' lives are shaped by their connection to the environment. They farm the plains, trap animals in the forest, collect roots and herbs, and fish in small rivers and streams. Tharu women decorate the walls of their houses with colourful paintings of elephants, horses, parrots, and flowers.
Married women have elaborate tattoos on their bodies.
The majority of Tharus follow a mixture of Hinduism and Animism and focus on serving household gods and forest spirits, to whom they make offerings. There are many clans of Tharu. Such diversity makes evangelisation difficult. Lord, we know the Tharu clans are not beyond the reach of your love and power.