Padam in India

Introduction / History

Padams are an Adi subgroup, and they speak the Adi language. They live in Arunachal Pradesh. At one time, they were nomadic hunters.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Padam men still love to hunt, and it supplements their food supply. Most are subsistence rice farmers who also raise livestock.

At festivals such as Solung Lune, Solung Etor, and Unying Aaran, they wear colorful costumes. Men wear Tibetan-style coats and bamboo helmets adorned with boar teeth or yak tails, while women wear cotton garments and jewelry. Festivals are a time for folk dances, music, and feasting.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Padams traditionally worshipped the moon and the sun. Today, about a third identify as Christian. There is a complete Bible and many gospel-centered materials for evangelism and discipleship in the Adi language.

What Are Their Needs?

Their farmlands, which are their livelihoods, are in jeopardy. Arunachal Pradesh can only support so many farmers. Padams need to plan for the future by getting an education so they can take on non-agricultural jobs.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to show Padam leaders new ways to make a living.
Pray for evangelists and church planters to go to the Padams with the gospel.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move in Padams families and settlements, turning their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for Padams disciples who will make more disciples among Tibetan Buddhists and Hindus.

Text Source:   Joshua Project