Mutali in India

Introduction / History

The Mutali people live in India, primarily in the state of Tamil Nadu. Their history is closely tied to the region’s diverse landscapes, including forests and hills, where they have traditionally resided. The Mutali have long depended on agriculture and forest resources for their livelihood. Over time, they have adapted to various socio-political changes while maintaining a distinct identity rooted in their language and traditions.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mutali people primarily engage in agriculture, cultivating crops such as rice, millet and vegetables. Many also rely on forest products, including honey, medicinal plants and timber for sustenance and income. Their villages are typically located in rural and hilly areas, with homes constructed from materials like mud, bamboo and thatch.

Social life revolves around the extended family and community, with cooperation playing a crucial role in agricultural and daily activities. Access to education has improved in recent years, but many Mutali children still face challenges in continuing their studies due to economic constraints. Healthcare services remain limited, particularly in remote areas.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Mutali people practice a blend of Hinduism and traditional animist beliefs. They worship a variety of Hindu deities, with particular reverence for local gods and goddesses associated with nature and agriculture. Animist practices, including the veneration of spirits believed to inhabit forests, rivers and mountains continue to influence their spiritual life. Rituals and ceremonies are conducted to honor these spirits, especially during important agricultural seasons and festivals.

What Are Their Needs?

The Mutali people face significant challenges related to economic opportunities, education and healthcare. Many still rely on subsistence farming and forest resources, with limited access to alternative livelihoods. Educational facilities are often inadequate, leading to high dropout rates and limited literacy levels among children. Healthcare services are scarce, particularly in remote areas, resulting in poor health outcomes and a reliance on traditional medicine. Infrastructure development, such as improved roads, clean water supply and access to electricity is essential to enhancing their quality of life. Initiatives focused on sustainable livelihoods, education and healthcare access are vital for the long-term development of the Mutali people.

Prayer Points

Karnataka Tribal Research. (2023). Ethnographic Overview of the Mutali People. Retrieved from karnatakatribalresearch.org
UNDP India. (2023). Development Needs of Tribal Communities in Karnataka. Retrieved from in.undp.org

Text Source:   Joshua Project