Buddhism in Bangladesh
Buddhism in Bangladesh - There is evidence of Buddhism in Bangladesh dating to the 3rd century B.C. According to traditional accounts, Gautama Buddha visited East Bengal during his lifetime. However it was during the reign of Emperor Ashoka that Buddhism gained a strong foothold in the region.[1] Buddhism flourished in the region until the 12th century.
In modern times, approximately 0.7% of the population of Bengal (about one million people) are adherents of Theravada Buddhism.[1]
Most of the followers of Buddhism in Bangladesh live in the south-eastern region, especially in the Chittagong district. Also, there are people of Arakanese descent living in the sub-tropical Chittagong Hill Tracts. Most of these people belong to the Chakma, Chak, Marma, Tenchungya and the Khyang, who since ancient times have practiced Buddhism. Other tribals, notably those who practice Animism, have come under some Buddhist influence, and this is true in the case of the Khumi and the Mru, and to a lesser extent on the other tribals.[1]
- Further reading
Buddhism in Bangladesh, Wikipedia- Buddhism in Bangledesh, UNESCO World Heritage and Sustainable Tourism Programme
- Buddhism in Bangladesh, buddhism-guide.com
Notes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Buddhism in Bangledesh, UNESCO World Heritage and Sustainable Tourism Programme