Mewahang in Nepal

Mewahang
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Map Source:  People Group data: Omid. Map geography: UNESCO / GMI. Map Design: Joshua Project
People Name: Mewahang
Country: Nepal
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 4,100
World Population: 4,100
Primary Language: Mewahang, Eastern
Primary Religion: Other / Small
Christian Adherents: 0.00 %
Evangelicals: 0.00 %
Scripture: New Testament
Ministry Resources: No
Jesus Film: No
Audio Recordings: Yes
People Cluster: South Asia - other
Affinity Bloc: South Asian Peoples
Progress Level:

Introduction / History

The Mewahang people, also known as Newange Rai, are part of the South Himalayan people cluster within the Tibetan / Himalayan Peoples affinity bloc. They are found exclusively in Nepal. Their primary language is Eastern Mewahang, which belongs to the Sino-Tibetan language family. The language is endangered and not widely taught in schools, though it is still spoken by adults in the community.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Mewahang people live in remote mountainous regions of eastern Nepal. Their lifestyle is shaped by subsistence agriculture, animal husbandry, and local trade. Communities are small and tightly knit, with strong kinship ties and traditional customs. Due to geographic isolation, access to education, healthcare, and infrastructure is limited, contributing to economic challenges and social marginalization.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Mewahang people primarily practice Hinduism, the dominant religion of the Indian subcontinent. Hinduism among the Mewahang includes worship of various deities, participation in temple rituals, and observance of festivals. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own beliefs and practices.

What Are Their Needs?

They need a complete Bible translation in the Mewahang language to make Scripture accessible to their community. They need radio broadcasts, the JESUS Film, and other visual gospel tools in their language to support evangelism and discipleship. They need trained local leaders and church planters who can minister effectively within their cultural context.
Mewahangs need holistic development initiatives, including education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, to improve their quality of life and support spiritual growth.

Prayer Points

Pray for the translation of the Old Testament and gospel media into the Mewahang language.
Ask God to raise up workers and local leaders who can share Christ in culturally sensitive ways.
Pray for spiritual openness and transformation among Mewahang families and villages.
Pray for the development of Christian radio broadcasts and other media outreach to reach isolated communities.
Pray for the establishment of churches among the Mewahang people.

Text Source:   Joshua Project