Introduction / History

The Mannan are a Scheduled Caste. In Tamil Nadu, the Mannan speak Kerala and Tamil. The Mannan in Kerala speak, read and write in Malayalam.

What Are Their Lives Like?

They are not vegetarians but do not eat beef nor pork and they eat rice as a cereal. They prefer cross cousin marriages.
They work in coconut harvesting, herbal medicines and laboring and in other occupations. Others work as washermen and in government and private service. Both boys and girls are educated. A community association looks after their interests.

What Are Their Beliefs?

They 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 Tribal Mannan people need to put their hope in the King of kings, realizing that he is the one who gives them worth and dignity.

Prayer Points

Pray that the community association leaders come to Jesus Christ and lead others to him.
Pray that gospel materials and the internet will lead them to salvation.
Pray that hundreds of them will be willing to risk community pressure to embrace the only savior.

Scripture Prayers for the Mannan, tribal in India.

References

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