Pankho people explained

Group:The Pankhos
Population:1,857 (In Bangladesh)
according to the 2022 Bangladeshi census
Regions:Majority populations in Bangladesh and also in IndiaIn Bangladesh the Pankhos reside in Rangamati Hill District of the Chittagong Hill Tracts.In India the Pankhos reside in Mizoram.
Languages:Pankho language
Religions:Christianity Minority: Buddhism

The Pankhos (bn|পাংখো), are a community inhabiting the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh with a population of only 1,857 in Bangladesh according to the 2022 census. In Bangladesh, the Pankhos live in Rangamati Hill District .

The Luseis and Pankhos belong to the Kuki-chin-mizo group of people.[1] The Lushai Hills, which is now part of Mizoram, is their original homeland. Though the Luseis and Pankhos are identified as separate tribes, they are culturally very close to each other. Though the Luseis do not understand Pankho language, the latter understand the Lusei language.[2] Both the tribes are known for their bravery, honesty and truthfulness.

Geographical Distribution

According to 2022 census, there are 1,857 Pankho people in Bangladesh. Specifically, 1,398(75.28%) Phanko live in Rangamati district.

UpazilaPopulation Percentage of Bom
Belaichhari Upazila4981.68%
Rangamati Sadar Upazila2280.15%
Barkal Upazila2080.42%
Kaptai Upazila1430.26%
Baghaichhari Upazila1170.11%
Juraichhari Upazila1160.43%
Others<100

Religion and culture

The Pankhos adopted Christianity during the British period and have adopted western dress and culture.

Notes and References

  1. Book: Saradindu Shekhar Chakma. Ethnic Cleansing in Chittagong Hill Tracts. 40.
  2. Book: Saradindu Shekhar Chakma. Ethnic Cleansing in Chittagong Hill Tracts. 41.