Affinity Group: South Asian Peoples

Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples

People Cluster: Bengali

Language: Maithili - (mai)

Alternate Name(s):

Primary Religion: Islam - Sunni

Country: Nepal

Also found in: India

Population: 504,000

Global Population: 1,377,000

Progress of the Gospel: Engaged yet Unreached

Global Status of Evangelical Christianity: Less than 2% Evangelical, No Active CP Activity

Overview: The Shaikh (Maithili) of Nepal, numbering 504,000, are Engaged yet Unreached. They are part of the Bengali people cluster within the South Asian Peoples affinity bloc. Globally, this group totals 1,377,000 in 2 countries. Their primary language is Maithili. The primary religion practiced by the Shaikh (Maithili) is Sunni Islam, the largest branch of Islam. Sunni Muslims follow the teachings of the Qur'an and consider the first four caliphs to be the rightful successors of Muhammad.

Bible Translations: Available

Jesus Film: Available

Gospel Recordings: Available

Radio Broadcast: Available