What Is Rohingya Language?

What Is Rohingya Language?

The Rohingya language is a dialect of the Chittagonian language, which is a member of the Indo-Aryan language family. It is primarily spoken by the Rohingya people, an ethnic group residing in the Rakhine State of Myanmar (Burma), as well as in parts of Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia, among other countries where Rohingya refugees have sought shelter.

The Rohingya people are primarily Muslim and have faced persecution and discrimination in Myanmar for many years. Due to the ongoing conflicts and violence, many Rohingyas have been forced to flee their homeland, leading to the establishment of Rohingya communities in neighboring countries and beyond.

The Rohingya language is traditionally written using the Arabic script when religious texts or personal documents are recorded. However, since the language has not been officially recognized in Myanmar, it lacks a standardized writing system, and there is no official script for it.

It's important to note that the Rohingya people's situation has been a subject of international concern, and the term "Rohingya" has been politically sensitive in Myanmar. The Myanmar government has historically referred to them as "Bengalis," implying that they are illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, a claim disputed by the Rohingya and many international organizations. However, the international community and various human rights organizations recognize the Rohingya people as an indigenous ethnic group with their own distinct language and culture.

The linguistic and cultural identity of the Rohingya community is an essential aspect of their struggle for recognition, rights, and protection. The preservation and acknowledgment of their language play a crucial role in maintaining their distinct identity and heritage.