Palleyan in India

Introduction / History

Palleyans (also spelled Paliyan, Palaiyar, or Pazhaiyar) are a Scheduled Tribe primarily located in the Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu and eastern Kerala. They speak Tamil, the language of Tamil Nadu.

They were once hunter/gatherers who found, ate, and sold honey and other foods in undeveloped areas.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Many Palleyans have transitioned into traders of forest products, food cultivators, and beekeepers. Some work as wage laborers on plantations or in nearby towns.

Palleyan children love to climb trees and swing like the monkeys they see in the forest. Tree Game: Inspired by monkeys, children swing and climb trees in a chase-style game. Another Palleyan game is a hide-and-seek game using sticks and mud. There is also sottangal, a dexterity game involving tossing and catching pebbles. Their festivals involve nature-based rituals, dancing, and music. They have a special ceremony to invoke rain and protect the forest spirits.

Palleyan have small communities called kudis; sometimes living in caves or mud shelters. They bury their dead near their homes. Women are involved in decision-making.

What Are Their Beliefs?

About three-fourths are Hindu, and the rest are Christian.

What Are Their Needs?

Over-dependence on what they find in the forest has its limits. These will dry up as the forests are developed. Palleyans need education so they can earn a living in an urban environment.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to show Palleyan leaders new ways to make a living.
Pray for Tamil-speaking evangelists and church planters to go to the Palleyans with the gospel.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move in Palleyan families and settlements, turning their hearts to the King of kings.
Pray for Palleyan disciples who will make more disciples.

Text Source:   Joshua Project