Let's paint a picture of the Tanchangya people, a vibrant community nestled in the heart of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Imagine rolling hills draped in emerald, green, the air alive with the sounds of nature – this is their home. Ranked fifth among Bangladesh's indigenous groups in the 2001 census, with a population of around 31,164, the Tanchangya are scattered across Rangamati, Bandarban, and Khagrachari districts, as well as pockets in Chittagong and Cox's Bazar. Their reach extends beyond Bangladesh too, with communities thriving in the southeastern parts of Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur in India, and even in Myanmar's Arakan region.
Language and Clans
Belonging to the vast family of the Mongoloid people, the Tanchangya speak a language that echoes the ancient tongues of Pali, Prakrit, and early Bengali, all woven together. Interestingly, within the community, you'll hear subtle variations in pronunciation, a testament to their division into twelve distinct clans or "gachas," like the Mogcha, Karwagcha, and many more.
A Legacy of Jhum Farming
Traditionally, the Tanchangya have been skilled "Jum" farmers, cultivating the slopes with care and ingenuity. While Jhum cultivation is still practiced, more and more Tanchangya are finding opportunities in education and employment, contributing to both government and private sectors.
Dressed to Impress
But the Tanchangya are perhaps most recognizable for their striking attire. Picture a woman adorned in a unique style, instantly distinguishable from other hill women. Her hair, carefully styled in a bun, is crowned with a "khobong," a beautifully crafted headpiece. She wears a "keboi," a full-sleeved blouse intricately embroidered with colorful threads at the shoulders and cuffs.
Her "pinuin" or "pinnon," a skirt woven with seven vibrant colours, completes the ensemble. Black stripes run vertically along the edges, framing a central panel of red and a mesmerizing mix of other hues. A "fadoori" or "fadui," a decorative white sash, cinches the pinuin at the waist, often adorned with delicate floral patterns. While the white keboi and khobong are most often worn by Karwagcha women, and once were worn by Mogcha women, these unique styles are less common amongst the Mogcha now, the wearing of the Khobong head covering and the Fadooi sash remain in use by Monglagcha and Melonggcha women.
Adornment and Tradition
Adding to their splendor are traditional ornaments: "rajju" and "jongga" earrings, "baghor," "kochikharu," and "kiaiingshik" bangles, "tajjur" armlets, and necklaces like the "chandrahar," "halchuli," and "sikichora." Men, in the past, traditionally wore dhotis and long-sleeved shirts.
Tanchangya Marriage Traditions
Marriage, or "saanga," is a significant event in Tanchangya society. There are three paths to marriage: a traditional ceremony at the bride's home, a secret elopement known as "dhe yana saanga," and a remarriage for widows called "ranimelar saanga." The Mogcha clan, in particular, has captivating wedding rituals.
Tanchangya Beliefs and Rituals
While primarily followers of Buddhism, the Tanchangya also revere a pantheon of deities through rituals like Ganga Puja, Bhut Puja, and Chumulang Puja, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. Both men and women can become "Osa," or healers, and the community comes together for Buddhist celebrations like Buddha Purnima, Sangha Dana, and the Kathin Chibar Dan.
Bishu: Ringing in the Tanchangya New Year
The Tanchangya New Year, known as "Bishu," is a time of joy and renewal. Celebrated over three days – "Phul Bishu," "Mul Bishu," and "Gujja-Pujja Din" – it marks the transition from the old year to the new.
Passing Down Heritage in Tanchangya Society
In terms of inheritance, Tanchangya customs favor male descendants, who equally inherit land, household items, and livestock. Daughters typically do not have a claim, unless there are no sons. However, the legal system allows daughters to inherit in some circumstances and provides certain rights for women upon divorce.
A Legacy of Song and Story
Their culture is also rich in music and storytelling, with traditional "ubageet" and "barogeet" songs passed down through generations, alongside modern melodies. Instruments like the flute, violin, "dhurook," and "khengkhong" fill the air with enchanting sounds, often crafted by the Tanchangya themselves. This community, deeply rooted in their traditions and history, continues to shape their unique identity amidst the ever-changing landscape of the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
