Bangladesh

Bangladeshi Culture

Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. Despite Bangladesh’s increasing expansion, most people still live in the country’s thousands of small villages. Monkeys, wild boars, dolphins, crocodiles, and more than seven hundred species of birds and over one hundred species of reptiles all live in Bangladesh.

In Bangladesh, a calm demeanor is perceived as a sign of maturity. Bangladeshis typically value the group more over the individual, so family needs are priority. Friendships are held to high standards in Bangladesh and expected to be long-lasting.

Host a Bangladeshi student in the U.S.

Family Dynamic

In the family structure, fathers are typically the family’s main source of income and primary decision makers. Both the father and mother are more likely to make decisions together in more urban environments. Fathers are accountable for paying for their children’s education and arranging their marriages. Children, especially sons, are expected to take care of their parents as they age. Extended families typically live in the same household. When parents are working, grandparents or older siblings often take care of the children.

Teenage Life in Bangladesh

Most teenagers in Bangladesh do not have many opportunities to socialize with other teenagers of the opposite sex. When two people decide to date, the relationship is expected to result in marriage. If a man and woman meet and decide to get married, the man is required to send a proposal to the woman’s parents through one of his older family members. Class is an important component in deciding who to marry.

In their free time, Bangladeshi teenagers enjoy playing handball, soccer, boat racing, and badminton. Families and teenagers also enjoy picnics and visiting relatives. Most teenage girls like watching movies, reading, and shopping with friends.

Holidays in Bangladesh

Official Language

Bangla, also known as Bengali, is Bangladesh’s official language.

Communication Styles

Bangladeshis favor an indirect communication style to avoid confrontation. Opinions are often expressed delicately, unless speaking with a close relative or friend. Generally, Bangladeshis consider it polite to tell someone else what they want to hear. Rather than communicating a direct “no,” someone may say “I can try,” instead. Words are usually spoken softly, as a loud voice signifies anger, which is frowned upon in Bangladeshi culture. Maintaining contact is considered a sign of politeness and sincerity during conversation.

Diet

In the Bangladeshi diet, rice is a mainstay. People also regularly eat fish and daal (a lentil-based soup). Bangladeshis use cumin, ginger, coriander, turmeric, pepper, and many other spices in their cuisine. Popular dishes include shoreshe ilish (hilsa fish cooked in mustard) and curry. Food is often marinated in jhowl (made from chopped onions and spices marinated in warm cooking oil). Popular desserts include rasgulla and kalojam, both sweets in syrup. Popular fruits include mangoes, lychees, jackfruit, guavas, watermelons, bananas, and papaya.

The land of rivers