The Chakma people represent one of the most culturally significant and resilient ethnic groups in Southeast Asia and Northeast India. Primarily inhabiting the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh and the Indian states of Mizoram, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh, they are a bridge between Indo-Aryan linguistic roots and Tibeto-Burman geographical origins.
History and Religion
Believed to be descendants of the ancient Sakya clan—the lineage of Gautama Buddha—the Chakmas have a long history of migration from the Magadha region to the lush hills of the East. Unlike many of their neighbors in the Northeast who practice Christianity or Animism, the Chakmas are devout followers of Theravada Buddhism. Their spiritual life revolves around the Kyong (temple), and their rituals often blend Buddhist philosophy with indigenous traditions, such as the worship of nature spirits.
Culture and Society
The tribe is celebrated for its unique intellectual heritage. They possess their own script, Ojhopath, and a language closely related to Bengali. Their social fabric is woven with distinct artistic traditions, most notably the Pinon-Hadi. This traditional attire, hand-woven on backstrap looms by Chakma women, features the Alam—a complex tapestry of geometric patterns that are passed down through generations.
The Biju Festival
Life in a Chakma village is punctuated by the rhythm of the seasons and the Biju festival, which marks the New Year. Over three days—Phool Biju, Mul Biju, and Gojyapajya Biju—communities gather to offer flowers to rivers, share traditional rice-based delicacies, and perform the Bizhu dance.
Despite facing historical challenges, including displacement due to the Kaptai Dam in the 1960s, the Chakma people have maintained a fierce pride in their identity. Today, they remain a vital part of the Northeast’s cultural mosaic, standing as guardians of an ancient Buddhist legacy in a modern world.
Praharjyoti Sarmah
MA 1st Semester
DCJGU
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