Introduction / History

Mangala in India are also called Mangali. The word mangala can mean "happiness" in Telugu. They have been given the name Mangala because they traditionally played flutes at weddings.

Where Are they Located?

Mangala people live in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Mangala people read and write in Telugu. They have a low regard for literacy, although they believe in education for their children.
They are not vegetarians. Rice is their main cereal.

They work as barbers, musicians, women as midwives, and hairdressers, and some work in government.

In Andhra Pradesh, the Mangala are also called Bajantri. They have one spouse and prefer cross cousin marriages. Divorcees and the bereaved may re-marry. They cremate and bury their dead, and there are set periods for birth and death pollution. They have Panchayats that judge in local matters.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The primary religion practiced by Mangala people is Hinduism, the predominant religious tradition on the Indian subcontinent. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

What Are Their Needs?

The primary need of Mangala people is to understand that Jesus Christ give His life to pay the full penalty for all their sins.

Nearly all are Hindus, and the Mangalas are locked into Hindu culture, so they usually view accepting the lordship of Christ as a threat to their identity.

Andhra Pradesh has established anti-conversion laws, "ironically titled freedom of religion and rights of tribal and other marginalized sections of the Indian society." These laws are widely abused by Hindu radicals to harass and intimidate Christians while claiming to be operating under the auspices of state law.

Prayer Points

Pray for God's blessing, strengthening and healing of Mangala communities through the abundant life and love Jesus offers to all nations.
Pray for deliverance from the fear that hinders God's blessing from multiplying through Mangala families and communities.
Pray that spiritual barriers will be broken, and that they will turn their hearts to Jesus.
Pray that God's people will make long-lasting, intentional contact with Mangala people that will result in many disciples reaching their own people.

Scripture Prayers for the Mangala in India.

References

Singh, K. S., ed. "India's Communities A-Z", Oxford University Press, USA 1999