Laju in India

Introduction / History

Lajus live in India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. They are one of the Naga tribes who speak the Nocte dialect of Naga.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Because of their small size and a lack of information, we will need to extrapolate given what we know about other Naga groups.

Though some have enough education to find jobs with the government or with educational institutions, most are subsistence farmers. They grow rice, maize, millet, and vegetables, and raise chickens and pigs for their food. They augment their food supply by hunting and fishing. They also increase their income by making and selling woven baskets and metal tools.

Like most agricultural people, the Lajus enjoy a harvest festival once the crops are harvested. These include music, dancing, and storytelling. Oral traditions preserve their history and values. Laju youths enjoy soccer like most other youths in India. Lajus also have their own traditional games and sports.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Like other Naga peoples, the Lajus are Christian. Traditional religious beliefs linger, ones based on ancestral and nature spirits. They celebrate Christmas and Easter like other Christian people.

What Are Their Needs?

Rural Lajus don’t have adequate medical or educational resources. Without education, they are stuck as subsistence farmers. Education is the key to advancement. There are government programs, but progress is slow.

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 Laju people.
Pray for Christians to have love, joy, peace, and patience as they tell others about the King of kings.
Pray for a powerful Holy Spirit revival to permeate their families and churches, drawing them into greater love for God and for their neighbors.

Text Source:   Joshua Project