Introduction / History

Mankirdias are a small tribe living in India’s Odisha state. They have lost their language; it has been replaced by Odia.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Being semi-nomadic, their food comes from hunting, gathering, and collecting mushrooms and honey in the forest. The Mankirdias eat from leaf plates. Kumbhas are their temporary, dome-shaped leaf huts.

They regularly move to find more resources. Mankirdia settlements include 10-15 families.

Kinship networks are firmly rooted in traditions. Their political structure leans towards being egalitarian.

People get together for festivals each spring. Festivals involve feasting, music, and storytelling.

What Are Their Beliefs?

About two-thirds are Hindu and one-fourth are Christian.

What Are Their Needs?

There is a good chance the Mankirdias will be extinct in 100 years. They have already lost their language, and their culture is eroding. Their handicrafts are being replaced by comparable goods made from plastic.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Lord’s mercy to hover over the Mankirdia community.
Pray for God’s goodness to follow them all the days of their lives.
Pray for Christians to help them find new and better ways to earn a living.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to spark revival in Mankirdia families.

Scripture Prayers for the Mankirdia in India.

References

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