Introduction / History

The Mankar Bhil are a scheduled tribe. They speak Hindi. They live in Maharashtra and also live in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. Many years ago, Bhil rajas (kings) permitted immigrants from the plains to settle in the hill regions. To safeguard their independence and rule, the Bhil fought against the Moghals, the Marathas and the British.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mankar Bhil work in agriculture and as laborers. They also work in animal husbandry and they collect forest produce which they sell at markets. A local council looks after their needs and judges their disagreements. The divorced and bereaved can marry again. The dead are either cremated or buried which is rare for Hindu communities. The Central Bhil are usually shy and love their independence. Festivals, dance, drama, and music are a large part of their culture. Each village is led by a head man who deals with disputes. Respect among family members is strong, and there is a great sense of connection between the living and the dead. Property is shared equally by the male descendants. Bhil villages are rather widely scattered. The houses are located in fields where they grow millet, maize, wheat, and barley. The highlanders live in tidy houses made with walls of sticks intertwined with small branches. The roofs (shaped like beehives) are usually made of clay tiles but are sometimes made of straw and leaves.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Almost all of the Central Bhil practice ethnic religions that have been highly influenced by Hinduism. They worship Shiva as their supreme god. Ancestor worship (praying to deceased ancestors) is also quite popular. They call upon shamans to offer sacrifices to their many gods and mud idols.

What Are Their Needs?

There are three segregated classes: the Bhagat Bhil, the ordinary Bhil, and the lowest class—the Christian Bhil. To accept Christ means becoming an outcast.

Prayer Points

Pray that the council leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead this community into a Disciple Making Movement.
Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the only Savior.
Pray for faithful workers who are filled with the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Scripture Prayers for the Bhil Mankar in India.