Mahli in Bangladesh
Photo Source:
Gerald Roberts
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Map Source:
People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
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| People Name: | Mahli |
| Country: | Bangladesh |
| 10/40 Window: | Yes |
| Population: | 43,000 |
| World Population: | 502,000 |
| Primary Language: | Mahali |
| Primary Religion: | Hinduism |
| Christian Adherents: | 1.48 % |
| Evangelicals: | 0.76 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | South Asia Hindu - other |
| Affinity Bloc: | South Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Mahali of Bangladesh are related to a much larger group called Santal, both groups being of the proto-Australoid race and speaking related languages. The Mahali, however, live in villages which are separate from Santali villages as well as separate from Bengali villages.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Also, nearly all Mahalis are basket weavers by trade, another feature which distinguishes them from Santals. This basket trade is a family affair as Mahali children learn to weave bamboo into baskets of various shapes and sizes at a fairly young age. Because of their basket trade, most Mahali villages are located along bus routes and are very near to markets where they sell their baskets.
What Are Their Beliefs?
There is a Christian community among the Mahli people, but most remain Hindu. Though they live in Bangladesh, Hindus maintain the religious beliefs of India. Hinduism is a composite of ancient beliefs throughout South Asia.
What Are Their Needs?
Some of the Mahli people need consistent clean water and better medical facilities.
Prayer Points
Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Mahli family leaders, motivating them to disciple family members.
Pray for Mahli disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for South Asian workers to take the gospel to those who don’t know that Jesus Christ died to save sinners.