Bangladeshi culture

The culture of Bangladesh has a unique history, dating back more than 2500 years. It has evolved over the centuries and encompasses the cultural diversity of several social groups of Bangladesh. There is a relatively small community of Bangladeshis in Bury in comparison to the North West as a whole.

Values and tradition

Influences of Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Islam have shaped the cultural tradition of Bangladesh over centuries. The culture is manifested in various forms including music, dance and drama; art and craft; folklores and folktales; languages and literature, philosophy and religion and festivals and celebrations.

Many Bangladeshi women wear Saris whilst males wear Panjabis, Fatuas and Pajamas as well as western influenced clothing. Many women will also wear a Beni (twisted bun) in their hair.

Language

Bangla is the official language of Bangladesh and many Bengalis residing in Bury will also speak English. Almost 98% of the population of Bangladesh is comprised of Bengalis and most (approximately 88%) are Muslims. Hindus constitute a sizable (11%) minority and there are a small number of Buddhists and Christians residing in Bangladesh.

Recreation

Religion plays an important role in recreation with Muslim Bengalis observing the traditional religious festivals such as Eid. A number of common festivities are also observed countrywide irrespective of race. Pahela Baishakh (the first day of Bangla year - 14 or 15 April) Independence Day (26 March) and National Mourning Day (21 February) are some of the major festivals celebrated in the country.

The traditional music in Bangladesh shares similarities with the Indian sub-continent. Music in Bangladesh can be divided into three distinct categories - classical, folk and modern. The classical music, both vocal and instrumental, is rooted in the remote past of the sub-continent. In modern day society, western instruments such as Guitars, Drums and Saxophones are used alongside traditional instruments.

Cuisine

Bangladesh is renowned for its distinctive culinary tradition. Boiled rice constitutes the staple diet and is served with a variety of vegetables, Curries, thick lentil soups, fish and chicken are also widely consumed. Bangladesh desserts are mostly milk based and consist of traditional ingredients such as Sandesh, Rosmalai, Kalo Jamun and Chom Chom.

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