Introduction / History

The Malakkuravan are an indigenous tribe that speaks a Dravidian language by the same name. They hold Scheduled Tribe status, which means they have low status in Hindu society. Traditionally they were hunters and gatherers.

Most live in three districts in Tamil Nadu, Salem, Namakkal and Dharmapuri. The Malakkuravan are primarily concentrated in the districts of Salem, Namakkal, and Dharmapuri in Tamil Nadu.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Though traditionally hunters and gatherers, today the Malakkuravan people are farmers.

They struggle with poverty, a lack of adequate education and limited healthcare. The Indian government is trying to address these issues by providing health care facilities. They are also helping this tribe sell their crafts.

The Malakuravan people also have their own culture and traditions. They have yearly celebrations and festivals.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Malakkuravan people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama’s birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

The Malakkuravan people need to accept the warm embrace of the only savior so they can enjoy spiritually meaningful lives.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to work mightily in their communities, blessing them in every way.

Pray for the Holy Spirit to give the Malakkuravan people a love for God's word and a desire to spread its influence.

Pray for signs and wonders among them and for great breakthroughs with a rapid multiplication of disciples and house churches.

Pray for bold workers who are driven by the love of the Holy Spirit to go to them.

Pray for an unstoppable movement to Christ among them.

Scripture Prayers for the Malakkuravan in India.