Introduction / History

The Mishmi or Deng people of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh are an indigenous group comprising three tribes:Idu Mishmi (Idu Lhoba); Digaro tribe (Taraon, Darang Deng), and Miju Mishmi (Kaman Deng). The Mishmi live in the northeastern portion of the central Arunachal Pradesh. The Idu Mishmis migrated from Burma. They were followed by the ancestors of the Digaru Mishmis a little over 500 years ago. The Mijus were the last to migrate from the direction of Hakamti-Long on the Kachin country. The language of the Miju has recently put into a Roman letter script.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The lifestyle of the Miju reflects the mountains and forests where they live. Much of the livelihood of the Miju is based upon the animals they raise. Mishmis are non-vegetarian. Men and children consume pork as well as beef; eating almost every part of the animal. However, their women eat the meat of small birds and fish. Their houses are made of bamboo and the roof is thatched with long grass. They are constructed on raised platforms, beneath which their domestic animals such as pigs and chickens are kept.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Miju people practice a number of different religions. Some claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. Others are Hindus, Buddhists and animists. The Miju believe that spirits dwell in the objects of nature. These sprits can harm the people if they are not appeased. As a result, the Miju offer prayers, rituals and sacrifices to placate the evil spirits and the spirits of their ancestors.

What Are Their Needs?

The Mishmi people need the blessings of Jesus Christ, the only one who can offer them abundant life. Jesus alone can forgive their sins and give them the hope of eternal life. Only Jesus can free them from their fear of evil spirits.

Prayer Points

Pray for a spiritual hunger that will give the Mishmi people a willingness to accept the eternal blessings of Jesus Christ. Pray for a disciple making movement that will bless the Mishmi people this decade. Pray for the Lord to send out workers to the Mishmi people. Ask the Lord to establish the believers among the Miju in His Word. Pray that the Bible would be translated into the Miju's languages.

Scripture Prayers for the Miju Mishmi in India.