Introduction / History

In India’s northeastern state of Nagaland, live the Changs. They are one of the Naga tribes, and Chang is their Naga dialect.

Some believe the name “Chang” is derived from the banyan tree. Others believe it came from a word for eastern, since they migrated from the east.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most of the Changs earn their living from slash-and-burn farming, growing rice, millet, corn, and other basic crops. Others make their living by making and selling hand made goods such as textiles and clothes. The more fortunate among them receive more education, enabling them to pursue careers in healthcare, education, government services, and the private sector.

Their society is based on clans, each with their own lineage from a common ancestor. Village councils, headed by chiefs, make their decisions.

The Changs enjoy festivals, which usually involve music, dancing, rituals, and feasting.

What Are Their Beliefs?

After Christianity was introduced in the late 1800s, most adopted faith in Christ. As time has passed, faith remains, but it has eroded. They still identify as Christian. Some of their harvest rituals involve giving thanks to the spirits rather than God.

What Are Their Needs?

Modernization and urbanization pose significant challenges for tribal peoples, such as the Changs. Many are still engaged in subsistence farming. The Changs will need greater educational opportunities to compete in the coming decades.

Prayer Items

Pray for the Lord to provide them with the education they need to navigate the changes of the 21st century.
Pray that the Naknyulum Festival (harvest celebration) will soon become a time to thank the Lord of lords for their harvests.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to do mighty works in Naga churches and families, spurring them on to love and good works.
Pray for their churches to send missionaries to Hindus and Tibetan Buddhists.

Scripture Prayers for the Chang in India.

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chang_Naga
https://karmshil.wordpress.com/2024/03/09/chang-tribe-of-nagaland-guardians-of-tradition-in-a-changing-world/
https://indigpeople.wordpress.com/2023/05/09/mythologies-of-the-chang-tribe/