Arleng in India

Introduction / History

The Arleng people are also known as Mikir or Karbi. Karbi is the name of their language. This language is part of the greater Tibeto-Burman family of languages, commonly found in western China. They live mainly in Assam, but some are in other states of northeastern India. They were scattered throughout this region years ago by an invasion of the Burmese military.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Arleng people have five clans. One does not marry within their own clan; that would be like marrying a sister or brother. Instead, they prefer to marry certain cousins, or to marry for love.
They narrate stories of their ancestor’s lives through a musical form that incorporates speaking as well as singing. Their clothes resemble peoples in Southeast Asia.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Though most are considered Hindu, the Arleng people belong to a couple of Hindu sects. They generally believe in reincarnation like other Hindus, but they are divided in other ways. Because of their tribal background, the Arleng hold to many traditional beliefs as well. For example, they have a special death ritual for deceased family members. They also celebrate the Botor Kekur festival where they ask their god for rain. Though they are mainly Hindu, there are some vibrant Christians among the Arleng people.

What Are Their Needs?

Their traditional economy has clashed with the local market economy. This has put them at a disadvantage, so the Arleng people suffer from poverty. They grow many kinds of fruits and vegetables along with the usual rice. Their slash and burn form of farming has held them back.

Prayer Points

Pray for a revival of the Arleng Church, causing them to rise up and expand the influence of the only savior in their families and villages.
Pray for them to rise out of poverty and produce such a great yield that they can sell to others.
Pray for Arleng disciples to disciple others.

Text Source:   Joshua Project