Bangladesh

Here are some interesting facts about Bangladesh:

1. Bangladesh is the eighth-most populous country in the world, with a population of over 160 million people.

2. The country is home to the world's largest delta, the Sundarbans, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a critical habitat for the Bengal tiger.

3. Bangladesh has the world's longest natural beach, the Cox's Bazar, which stretches for over 120 kilometers.

4. The national fruit of Bangladesh is the jackfruit, which is also the largest tree-borne fruit in the world.

5. Bangladesh is the world's second-largest exporter of garments, after China.

6. The country has a unique musical tradition called Baul, which is a form of folk music that blends elements of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist culture.

7. Bangladesh is the birthplace of microfinance, with Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus founding the Grameen Bank in 1983 to provide small loans to poor women in rural areas.

8. Cricket is the most popular sport in Bangladesh followed by football. Ha-du-du is the national sport of Bangladesh.

9. The national emblem of Bangladesh features a water lily, which is a symbol of the country's natural beauty and resilience.

Bangladesh is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the north, east, and west, and Myanmar to the southeast.  It has a land area of 1,48,460 square kilometers where more than 16 million people live. It is one of the most densely populated countries of the world. It has a population of over 160 million people, making it the eighth-most populous country in the world. Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan in 1971 after a nine-month-long war of independence.

Bangladesh is known for its natural beauty, including the world's largest delta, the Sundarbans, and Cox's Bazar, which has the world's longest natural beach. The country is also a major producer of textiles and garments, and its economy has been growing steadily in recent years.

Majority of the people of Bangladesh are Muslims. Other peoples are from Hindu, Bhudist, Christians and other religions. People of Bangladesh speak Bengali and English.

However, Bangladesh also faces several challenges, including poverty and natural disasters such as floods and cyclones. Despite these challenges, the country has made significant progress in improving the lives of its citizens in recent years, with improvements in education, healthcare, and economic growth.

Cities:

Here are some of the top cities in Bangladesh:

1. Dhaka - The capital and largest city of Bangladesh, with a population of over 21 million people.

2. Chittagong - The second-largest city in Bangladesh, located on the Bay of Bengal and home to the country's largest seaport.

3. Khulna - A major industrial and commercial center located in southwestern Bangladesh, known for its jute mills and shipyards.

4. Rajshahi - A city located in the northern part of Bangladesh, known for its historic sites and educational institutions.

5. Sylhet - A city located in northeastern Bangladesh, known for its tea plantations and natural beauty.

History:

Bangladesh has a rich and complex history that spans thousands of years. The region that is now Bangladesh was inhabited by various ethnic groups and kingdoms over the centuries, including the Pundra, the Gangaridai, the Maurya Empire, the Gupta Empire, and the Pala Empire.

In the 13th century, the region was ruled by the Bengal Sultanate, which was succeeded by the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. The British East India Company established control over Bengal in the 18th century and ruled the region until 1947, when India gained independence from British rule.

At that time, Bengal was divided into two parts - East Bengal and West Bengal. East Bengal became part of Pakistan, but the region faced discrimination and marginalization from the West Pakistani-dominated central government. This led to a movement for greater autonomy and eventually independence, which culminated in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.

The nine-month-long war resulted in the creation of an independent Bangladesh, with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as its first president. The new country faced significant challenges, including rebuilding after the war, addressing economic disparities, and establishing a stable political system.

Since independence, Bangladesh has made significant progress in many areas, including poverty reduction, economic development, and social indicators such as education and healthcare. However, the country still faces challenges such as political unrest, corruption, climate change, and income inequality.

 

Geography:

The country has a total area of 147,570 square kilometers and a population of over 160 million people, making it the 8th most populous country in the world.

The geography of Bangladesh is dominated by the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta, which covers most of the country. The delta is formed by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, and is one of the largest and most fertile river deltas in the world. The delta is also prone to flooding, which can cause significant damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure.

The terrain of Bangladesh is mostly flat and low-lying, with an average elevation of only 10 meters above sea level. The highest point in the country is Keokradong, which has an elevation of 1,230 meters and is located in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in the southeast of the country. The country is also home to the world's largest deltaic mangrove forest, the Sundarbans, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Bengal tiger.

Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate, with high temperatures and heavy rainfall throughout the year. The country experiences three distinct seasons - the hot season from March to June, the monsoon season from June to October, and the cool season from October to February. The monsoon season is particularly important for agriculture, as it provides water for rice cultivation, which is the country's most important crop.

 

Weather:

Bangladesh's environment and weather are influenced by its location in the tropical monsoon belt and the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta. The country experiences a warm and humid climate throughout the year, with three distinct seasons - the hot season, the monsoon season, and the cool season.

The hot season lasts from March to June, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season starts in June and lasts until October, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional flooding to the country. The cool season from November to February has lower temperatures and is characterized by clear skies and a pleasant climate.

Despite the abundance of water, Bangladesh faces environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion. Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to increased air pollution in major cities such as Dhaka and Chittagong, and water pollution in many rivers and coastal areas.

The Sundarbans mangrove forest, which covers parts of Bangladesh and India, is one of the most important and fragile ecosystems in the world. The forest is home to many endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, and is also an important source of livelihood for local communities. However, the forest is threatened by deforestation, illegal logging, and climate change, which are leading to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and habitat destruction.

 

Population:

Bangladesh has a population of over 160 million people, making it the 8th most populous country in the world. The population density is also high, with an average of over 1,100 people per square kilometer.

The majority of the population in Bangladesh is ethnically Bengali, with smaller ethnic groups including the indigenous communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region. The official language is Bengali, and Islam is the predominant religion, with over 90% of the population being Muslim.

The country has made significant progress in reducing its fertility rate, which has declined from an average of 6 children per woman in the 1970s to around 2.1 in recent years. This decline in fertility has led to a gradual aging of the population and is expected to have significant implications for the country's future demographic and economic trends.

 

Art and Culture:

Bangladesh has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that reflects its long and complex history, as well as its location at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia. The country's culture is influenced by a variety of factors, including religion, language, art, music, and literature.

One of the most distinctive features of Bangladesh's culture is its vibrant and colorful traditional attire, which includes the sari for women and the lungi for men. Bangladeshi cuisine is also an important aspect of the country's culture, with a variety of dishes featuring rice, fish, meat, vegetables, and spices.

The arts are an important part of Bangladesh's cultural identity, with a long and rich tradition of music, dance, and visual arts. Folk music and dance are particularly popular, with different regions of the country having their own unique styles and traditions. Classical music and dance also have a strong following, with the Baul music tradition being particularly influential.

The visual arts in Bangladesh encompass a range of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and textiles. The country has a long tradition of handicrafts, with products such as textiles, pottery, and woodwork being particularly renowned. The Nakshi Kantha, a traditional quilt made from old saris and dhotis, is a particularly notable example of Bangladeshi textile art.

Bangladesh has also produced a number of notable writers, poets, and intellectuals, including Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize for Literature, and Kazi Nazrul Islam, a poet and musician who is considered a national hero. The country's literary tradition includes a rich legacy of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, with themes ranging from the struggles of the rural poor to the challenges of urban life.

 

Business and Economy:

The economy of Bangladesh has made significant progress over the years, with an average annual growth rate of around 6% in recent years. The business and economy of Bangladesh are primarily driven by the garment industry, which accounts for about 80% of the country's exports. Other important industries include jute, tea, leather, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, and electronics. Agriculture is also a significant sector, employing around 45% of the population and contributing to over 15% of the country's GDP.

Foreign investment has been increasing in recent years, with the government implementing policies to encourage investment in areas such as infrastructure, power generation, and telecommunications. Bangladesh has also made progress in terms of poverty reduction, with the poverty rate declining from around 49% in 2000 to around 20% in 2021.

 

Agriculture:

Agriculture is an important sector of the economy of Bangladesh, employing around 45% of the population and contributing to over 15% of the country's GDP. Over the years, Bangladesh has made significant strides in agricultural development, particularly in the areas of crop diversification, modernization of farming practices, and rural infrastructure development.

One of the most notable developments in agriculture in Bangladesh has been the success of the Green Revolution, which started in the 1980s. The Green Revolution involved the introduction of high-yielding varieties of rice, as well as improvements in irrigation, fertilization, and pest control. This led to a significant increase in rice production, making Bangladesh self-sufficient in rice production and even allowing for exports in some years.

In recent years, the government of Bangladesh has implemented several initiatives to further modernize and improve the agriculture sector. These include the introduction of new crop varieties, such as hybrid maize and potato, and the promotion of integrated pest management practices. The government has also invested in rural infrastructure development, including building new roads and bridges, improving access to water and electricity, and expanding mobile phone coverage.

 

Health:

The health sector of Bangladesh has made significant progress over the past few decades, particularly in terms of reducing maternal and child mortality rates, increasing access to healthcare services, and controlling communicable diseases. The government of Bangladesh has implemented several initiatives to improve the health sector, including the expansion of healthcare facilities, the training of healthcare professionals, and the development of policies and programs aimed at improving public health.

One of the most notable developments in the health sector of Bangladesh has been the success in reducing maternal and child mortality rates. According to the World Health Organization, the maternal mortality rate in Bangladesh has declined from 322 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2001 to 173 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019. Similarly, the under-five mortality rate has declined from 144 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 28 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2019.

The government of Bangladesh has also made significant efforts to control communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS. These efforts have included the development of national strategies for disease control, the establishment of diagnostic and treatment facilities, and the provision of free or subsidized medicines for certain diseases.

 

Foods:

Bangladesh is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, which is influenced by its geography, history, and culture. The country's foods and fruits are rich in taste, nutrition, and cultural significance.

One of the most popular foods in Bangladesh is rice, which is typically eaten with a variety of curries and other dishes. Some of the most common curries include daal (lentils), chicken or beef curry, and vegetable curry. Seafood is also popular, particularly in coastal areas, with dishes such as hilsa fish curry, prawn curry, and shrimp bhaji.

Bangladesh is also home to a variety of delicious and nutritious fruits, many of which are grown locally. Some of the most popular fruits in Bangladesh include mangoes, jackfruit, papaya, pineapple, guava, and litchis. These fruits are often used in desserts or eaten on their own as a snack.

Mangoes, in particular, are a significant fruit in Bangladesh, with the country being one of the largest producers of mangoes in the world. The fruit is often used in desserts, such as mango lassi (a yogurt-based drink), as well as in savory dishes like chutneys and pickles.

 

Biodiversity:

Bangladesh is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, with a variety of forest types, wildlife, and plant species. The country's forests and biodiversity play an important role in providing ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, soil conservation, and water regulation.

Forests in Bangladesh cover about 17% of the country's land area and are divided into several types, including tropical evergreen forests, mangrove forests, and deciduous forests. The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is located in Bangladesh and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, estuarine crocodile, and spotted deer.

Bangladesh also has a rich diversity of plant species, with an estimated 5,700 species of plants, including many medicinal plants. The country is also home to several important bird species, including the critically endangered spoon-billed sandpiper and the Oriental darter.

 

Mountains:

Bangladesh is a predominantly flat country, with a low-lying terrain dominated by vast deltaic plains formed by the rivers that flow through the country. As such, there are no traditional mountains in Bangladesh, but there are a few notable hills that are considered significant natural landmarks.

The Chittagong Hill Tracts is a mountainous region located in southeastern Bangladesh, near the border with Myanmar and India. It comprises three distinct hill districts: Rangamati, Bandarban, and Khagrachari. The region is home to a number of indigenous communities, who have been living in the hills for centuries, and the area is known for its rich biodiversity, including numerous species of plants and animals.

 

Rivers and Sea:

The rivers and seas of Bangladesh play an important role in the country's economy, providing water for irrigation and transportation, as well as serving as a source of fish and other aquatic products. Bangladesh is a country with a vast network of rivers and is located on the Bay of Bengal, which is an arm of the Indian Ocean. Here are some of the major rivers and seas of Bangladesh:

The Ganges River - Also known as the Padma River in Bangladesh, it is one of the largest rivers in the world and flows through Bangladesh before merging with the Brahmaputra River in India.

The Brahmaputra River - Known as the Jamuna River in Bangladesh, it is one of the major rivers of South Asia and originates in Tibet before flowing through India and Bangladesh.

The Meghna River - One of the three main rivers that flow through Bangladesh, it is the largest deltaic river system in the world and empties into the Bay of Bengal.

The Karnaphuli River - A major river in southeastern Bangladesh, it flows through the port city of Chittagong before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

The Buriganga River - A major river that flows through the capital city of Dhaka, it is an important source of water for the city and is also used for transportation and fishing.

The Bay of Bengal - Located to the south of Bangladesh, it is an arm of the Indian Ocean and is home to a rich variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

 

Hospitality and Tourism:

Bangladesh is a country that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. While it may not be as popular a tourist destination as some of its neighbors, such as India and Thailand, it has a lot to offer for those who are looking for an authentic and off-the-beaten-path travel experience.

Hospitality is an integral part of Bangladeshi culture, and visitors to the country are often welcomed with open arms and treated with great respect and kindness. Bangladeshis are known for their generosity, and it is not uncommon for them to go out of their way to make visitors feel at home.

Tourism in Bangladesh is still in its early stages of development, but the country has a lot to offer for travelers who are interested in exploring its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique cuisine. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Bangladesh include:

The Bangladesh government has recognized the potential of tourism as a source of economic growth and has taken steps to promote the industry. However, there are still challenges that need to be addressed, such as infrastructure development, improving the quality of accommodations and services, and ensuring the safety and security of visitors. Nonetheless, for those who are willing to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bangladeshi people, the country offers a unique and rewarding travel experience.

 

Top Destinations:

Bangladesh has a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top destinations to visit in Bangladesh:

Sundarbans - This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the world's largest mangrove forest and the Bengal tiger. Visitors can take boat trips through the forest and witness its unique ecosystem and wildlife.

Cox's Bazar - This seaside town boasts the longest natural beach in the world, stretching for over 120 kilometers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities, as well as visiting nearby Buddhist temples and fishing villages.

Srimangal - This tea-producing region in northeastern Bangladesh is known for its scenic beauty and tea estates. Visitors can take tea tours and explore the lush green forests and waterfalls in the area.

Dhaka - The capital city of Bangladesh is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with a rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore its historic landmarks, markets, and museums, as well as enjoying the city's vibrant nightlife and cuisine.

Paharpur - This ancient Buddhist monastery is located in northwestern Bangladesh and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia. Visitors can explore the ruins of the monastery and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Rangamati - This scenic hill district in southeastern Bangladesh is known for its natural beauty and tribal communities. Visitors can enjoy trekking, boating, and exploring the traditional handicrafts and culture of the local communities.

Chittagong - This bustling port city is the second-largest city in Bangladesh and offers a mix of modern amenities and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore its hilltop shrine, colonial-era buildings, and bustling markets.

Kuakata - This seaside town is located on the southern coast of Bangladesh and offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and other beach activities, as well as exploring nearby Buddhist temples and fishing villages.

These are just a few of the many destinations worth visiting in Bangladesh. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Bangladesh offers a unique and rewarding travel experience for those who are willing to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

 

National Days:

Bangladesh has several national days that are celebrated throughout the year to commemorate important events in the country's history and culture. Here are some of the major national days of Bangladesh:

Independence Day (March 26) - This day commemorates the declaration of independence from Pakistan in 1971, which led to the formation of Bangladesh.

International Mother Language Day (February 21) - This day honors the language movement martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the recognition of Bangla as a state language in 1952.

Victory Day (December 16) - This day marks the victory of the Bangladesh Armed Forces over the Pakistani Army in 1971, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh.

National Mourning Day (August 15) - This day commemorates the assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, and his family members in 1975.

Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh) - This is the first day of the Bengali calendar, celebrated on April 14. It is a day of cultural significance, marked by traditional foods, music, and festivities.

Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha - These two major Islamic festivals are celebrated in Bangladesh, with Eid al-Fitr marking the end of Ramadan and Eid al-Adha commemorating the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim.

These national days are celebrated throughout the country with cultural programs, parades, and other festivities. They are an important part of Bangladesh's cultural heritage and provide an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their shared history and traditions.

 

Popular Leaders:

Bangladesh has a rich political history and has been led by several popular leaders who have made significant contributions to the country's development and progress. Here are some of the popular leaders of Bangladesh:

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman - He is the founding father of Bangladesh and led the country to independence from Pakistan in 1971. He served as the first President of Bangladesh and is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the country's history.

Ziaur Rahman - He was a former President and founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). He played a crucial role in shaping Bangladesh's politics and promoting democracy in the country.

Sheikh Hasina - She is the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the daughter of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. She has been in office since 2009 and has overseen significant economic and social development in the country.

Khaleda Zia - She is the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and the first female Prime Minister in the country's history. She led the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) from 1984 to 2018 and served as Prime Minister from 1991 to 1996 and again from 2001 to 2006.

Hussain Muhammad Ershad - He was a former President of Bangladesh and founder of the Jatiya Party. He played a key role in shaping Bangladesh's politics and promoting economic development during his time in office.

These are some of the popular leaders of Bangladesh who have made significant contributions to the country's politics and development.

 

Scientists:

Bangladesh has a growing scientific community and has produced several notable scientists in various fields. Here are some of the famous scientists of Bangladesh:

Dr. Firdausi Qadri - She is a microbiologist and immunologist and is widely regarded as one of the world's leading experts on cholera. She has worked on the development of vaccines for cholera and other infectious diseases.

Dr. Mohammad Ataul Karim - He is a physicist and electrical engineer who has made significant contributions to the field of fiber optics. He is known for his research on the theory of fiber optics and has developed several innovative fiber optic devices.

Dr. AKM Nurul Islam - He is a renowned biochemist and immunologist who has made significant contributions to the study of infectious diseases. He has developed several diagnostic tests for infectious diseases and has worked on the development of vaccines for malaria and tuberculosis.

Dr. Muhammed Zafar Iqbal - He is a computer scientist, writer, and educator and is known for his contributions to the field of Bengali computing. He has written several science fiction novels and has played a significant role in promoting science education in Bangladesh.

Dr. Maqsudul Alam - He is a molecular biologist and geneticist and has made significant contributions to the field of genomics. He is known for his research on the genome of the jute plant, which has helped to improve the production of jute, a key crop in Bangladesh.

These are some of the notable scientists of Bangladesh who have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have brought international recognition to Bangladesh's scientific community.

 

Writers and poets:

Bangladesh has a rich literary tradition and has produced several notable writers and poets who have made significant contributions to Bengali literature. Here are some of the famous writers and poets of Bangladesh:

Rabindranath Tagore - He is one of the most famous Bengali writers and poets of all time and is the first non-European to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1913. He is known for his poetry, short stories, novels, and songs, which continue to inspire people all over the world.

Kazi Nazrul Islam - He is known as the national poet of Bangladesh and is considered one of the most important figures in Bengali literature. He is known for his poetry, songs, and writings on social justice and is widely regarded as a symbol of Bengali nationalism.

Humayun Ahmed - He was a prolific writer, playwright, and filmmaker and is widely regarded as one of the most popular Bengali writers of the 20th century. He wrote over 200 books, including novels, short stories, and essays, and his works have been adapted into several films and TV series.

Syed Mujtaba Ali - He was a writer, linguist, and scholar who is known for his travelogues and essays on language and culture. He is widely regarded as one of the most important Bengali writers of the 20th century.

Jasimuddin - He was a poet and folklorist who is known for his poems and songs inspired by rural life in Bengal. He wrote several collections of poems and songs, including "Nakshi Kanthar Math" and "Rakhali."

These are some of the famous writers and poets of Bangladesh who have made significant contributions to Bengali literature and have helped to promote the country's cultural heritage.