Changes in Relations between Hindus and Muslims in a Bangladeshi Village

A Focus on Activities of the Samaj and Youth Club

Abstract

Most previous studies on Bangladeshi villages treated Hindus and Muslims separately based on the research framework that divides society by religion and analyzes individual social structures. Contrary to such previous studies, this study examines Hindus and Muslims in Bangladesh as constituents of a village society. In addition, the construction of their relations since the early 20th century is explored based on a case study of a village in the Tangail district. Therefore, the focus is on social activities in the samaj (i.e., an informal social organization that is formed based on a locality and religious distinction) and youth club. The people and ways in which activities are conducted are scrutinized as well. Along with the emigration of Hindus to India and expansion of Muslims’ residential space—resulting from political and social changes linked to the foundation of Pakistan and the liberation war of Bangladesh-physical and social distance between the two religious groups has lessened. However, the characterization of Hindus as minorities has strengthened, and Muslims have increasingly intervened in settling disputes and recognizing religious ceremonies in the Hindu samaj. Although Hindus and Muslims have participated together in mainly recreational social activities (e.g., sports activities and drama performances) through the village’s youth club for more than 60 years, such initiatives were directed only toward Muslims of late. Hindus were merely formally included in the club. However, the youth club had a role in emphasizing that Hindus belonged to the village’s samaj.