Zeliang in India

Introduction / History

Zeliangs are among the Naga peoples of northeastern India. Their Naga language, Zweme, defines them.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Zeliangs are primarily farmers who grow millet, rice, corn, and vegetables. They also raise pigs, cattle, and chickens. Families supplement their income by making and selling woven handicrafts and small-scale trade.

Their homes and common buildings are decorated with intricate carvings. Most of these carvings are symbolic.

They live in extended families where the eldest son makes the critical decisions. Zeliang communities often work together and cooperate with one another for the common good.

The Hega Festival is a major celebration marking the end of the agricultural year. During that festival, they perform rituals, dance, sing, and feast.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Their traditional beliefs involved reverence for nature spirits—trees, rivers, and mountains. They appeased the spirits for protection and prosperity. Most are now Christian, mainly Baptist, but traditional beliefs persist.

What Are Their Needs?

Poor roads hamper access to markets, healthcare, and educational institutions. Children usually only receive a primary education. Secondary education and advanced education must happen elsewhere. Without advanced education, they are stuck at the subsistence level.

Prayer Points

Pray for hundreds to be raised up with a defiant faith in Christ, one that will not be shaken, no matter what comes their way.
Pray for God to bring about his purpose for the Zeliang people.
Pray for Christians to have love, joy, peace, and patience as they tell others about the King of kings.
Pray for a mighty Holy Spirit revival to permeate their families and churches, drawing them into greater love for God and their neighbors.

Text Source:   Joshua Project