The
Rakhine, who are the majority ethnic group in Arakan State, have
long been influenced by their proximity to India & have firmed
strong trading links with the sub-continent. They claim a long history
of independence & ruled their own kingdom at Myauk-U ( Myohaung
) until 1784 AD.
The recorded names of kings & imprint of Buddhism date back
to the early centuries AD, but it is not certain whether this refers
to the same people. Buddhism was reputedly established during the
reign of King Chandra Surya in 146 AD, and most Rakhines are still
devout Buddhists today.
The Rakhines speak a dialect of Burmese that many scholars believe
is the earliest form of the language, and in culture & dress
they are very similar to Burmans. About one-quarter of Arakan’s
population are Muslims known as Rohingyas, mostly of Bengali descent,
and other minority groups include the Thet ( shakama ), Khami (Mro),
Daignet & Maramagyi, who live in the hills.
The
Rakhine, who are the majority ethnic group in Arakan State, have
long been influenced by their proximity to India & have firmed
strong trading links with the sub-continent. They claim a long history
of independence & ruled their own kingdom at Myauk-U ( Myohaung
) until 1784 AD.