Introduction / History

The Malai Pandaram in Kerala are a scheduled tribe which means they have low status in Hindu society. They live in the hill regions of Kollam and Pathanathitta districts of Kerala. Others live further east in Tamil Nadu. They speak Malayalam, the language of Kerala.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Hunting and gathering is their work. Their customs are different than nearby tribes. They know how to use herbs as medicines. Unlike most Hindus, they bury the dead. After a death in the family the place where the bereaved person lived is destroyed.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Malai Pandaram people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

What Are Their Needs?

The Malai Pandaram community needs the opportunity to advance socially and economically through advanced education.

Prayer Items

Pray that God will give them dreams and visions leading them to a relationship with Jesus Christ. Pray that gospel materials and the internet will become available to them. Pray for spiritual hunger. Pray for workers to go to them.

Scripture Prayers for the Malai Pandaram in India.