Mirdhas (Muslim traditions) in Bangladesh

Introduction / History

The Mirdas have disadvantaged tribal status. They trace their ancestry to the Oraon peoples in central India.

Where Are they Located?

The Mirdas people live mainly in either India's state of Odisha or northern Madhya Pradesh, but some live in Bangladesh.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mirdas are not vegetarians and eat wheat and rice as their staple foods. They have cousin marriages. A traditional village council looks after them. They work as farmers. Some do floor and wall painting or weave baskets.

They have a low literacy level especially among females, so the gospel will need to be offered in oral form.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Most Mirdhas people are Hindu, but some converted to Islam. Like other South Asian Muslims, the Mirdhas people have elements of Hinduism blended in with their Islamic beliefs since Hinduism has such deep roots in this part of the world. In theory, they have put their trust in Allah, but in practice, they look to other spirit beings for their daily needs.

What Are Their Needs?

The Muslim Mirdhas people in Bangladesh need the opportunity to choose Jesus Christ, and to follow Him.

Prayer Points

Pray for his kingdom to come and his will to be done among the Mirdhas people.
Pray for a movement of Mirdhas households to study the Bible and accept the blessings of Christ.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will drive the Mirdhas people to the arms of Jesus.
Pray for workers who are filled with the fruit and the power of the Holy Spirit to go to the Mirdhas people.

Text Source:   Keith Carey