The Pankhos (Bengali: 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 .
| Total population | |
|---|---|
| 1,857 (In Bangladesh) according to the 2022 Bangladeshi census | |
| Regions with significant populations | |
| Majority populations in Bangladesh and also in India
In Bangladesh the Pankhos reside in Rangamati Hill District of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. In India the Pankhos reside in Mizoram. | |
| Languages | |
| Pankho language | |
| Religion | |
| Christianity Minority: Buddhism |
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
editAccording to 2022 census, there are 1,857 Pankho people in Bangladesh. Specifically, 1,398(75.28%) Phanko live in Rangamati district.
| Upazila | Population | Percentage of Bom[3] |
|---|---|---|
| Belaichhari Upazila | 498 | 1.68% |
| Rangamati Sadar Upazila | 228 | 0.15% |
| Barkal Upazila | 208 | 0.42% |
| Kaptai Upazila | 143 | 0.26% |
| Baghaichhari Upazila | 117 | 0.11% |
| Juraichhari Upazila | 116 | 0.43% |
| Others | <100 |
Religion and culture
editThe Pankhos adopted Christianity during the British period and have adopted western dress and culture.