Understanding the Historical Context: Challenges and Pathways for Bangladesh’s Hindu Minority
History of Bangladesh
Bangladesh’s history is deeply intertwined with that of the Indian subcontinent. Before the partition of 1947, the territory that is now Bangladesh was part of undivided India (then called Bharat). The British colonial rulers implemented the partition of Bengal in 1905, dividing the region into East Bengal and West Bengal, primarily along religious lines. East Bengal had a Muslim majority, while West Bengal was predominantly Hindu. Though this partition was annulled in 1911 due to strong resistance, the communal divide had already been set in motion.
In 1947, British India was partitioned into two independent nations—India and Pakistan. East Bengal became part of Pakistan as East Pakistan, separated geographically from West Pakistan by over a thousand miles of Indian territory. Although East Pakistan was Muslim-majority, its people spoke Bengali, unlike the Urdu-speaking ruling elite of West Pakistan. This linguistic and cultural difference sowed seeds of discontent. The Pakistani government’s attempt to impose Urdu as the national language ignited protests and deepened the cultural divide.
The tension escalated into widespread violence and oppression, with the Pakistan Army carrying out brutal crackdowns on the Bengali population. Millions of people from East Pakistan fled to India, creating a massive refugee crisis. The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, came under enormous public pressure to intervene. In 1971, India supported the Bangladesh Liberation War, eventually leading to the surrender of over 93,000 Pakistani soldiers — the largest surrender since World War II. This decisive victory led to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
Ancient Bengal and Its Sanatana Heritage
Bengal has a rich and ancient cultural heritage rooted in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism). The region was once renowned for its spiritual traditions, temple architecture, and festivals dedicated to deities like Durga and Kali. The Bengal Kali Mandirs (temples) and the practice of Tantra were widespread and deeply respected. Bengal’s contribution to India’s spiritual and intellectual traditions remains significant, with the region being home to saints, scholars, and cultural movements that shaped the subcontinent’s history.
Decline of the Hindu Population in Bangladesh
Historically, Hindus constituted a significant portion of Bengal’s population. In 1941, before the partition, Hindus made up about 28% of the population in what is now Bangladesh. After partition and subsequent political upheavals, the Hindu population steadily declined. By the time of Bangladesh’s independence in 1971, it had reduced to around 13%. Today, it is estimated that Hindus form about 8% of Bangladesh’s population.
The decline is attributed to several factors: communal violence, discriminatory policies, land grabbing through acts like the Enemy Property Act (later renamed the Vested Property Act), and social and economic marginalisation. Many Hindu families, facing persecution and insecurity, migrated to India over the decades.
Also Read: Explore Bengal: The journey of history, culture and interesting facts
Historical Influences: The Advent of Islam in Bengal
The influence of Islam in Bengal began in earnest in the 13th century, when Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji invaded and established Muslim rule in parts of the region. Over centuries, Bengal saw the spread of Islamic culture, Sufi traditions, and architectural styles. While periods of coexistence existed, there were also times marked by conflict, forced conversions, and destruction of temples, which contributed to the gradual decline of the Hindu presence.
Mother Teresa’s Service in Bengal
In 1929, Mother Teresa arrived in Bengal by ship from Ireland. She dedicated her life to serving the poor, sick, and marginalised in the region, particularly in Kolkata (then Calcutta). Her work, carried out through the Missionaries of Charity, brought hope to countless destitute families and set an example of compassion that resonated across communities regardless of faith.
Contemporary Challenges: Border Tensions with Myanmar
Recently, reports have emerged that armed groups from Myanmar have claimed control over parts of the Bangladesh border. These groups reportedly forced Bangladeshi border forces to withdraw from certain areas. Such developments create additional challenges for Bangladesh, already grappling with internal issues and hosting refugees from neighbouring regions.