Biharis

The Biharis are a term used to describe the residents of the Indian state of Bihar, who are predominantly of Indo-Aryan and Indo-European descent. The region of Bihar has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with influences from ancient civilizations such as the Mauryan Empire and the Gupta Empire.

The majority of the population in Bihar is Hindu, with significant minorities of Muslims, Buddhists, and Christians. The Bihar region has been a center of trade and commerce, with many residents traditionally employed in agriculture, industry, and service sectors. However, poverty and unemployment are significant issues in the state, leading to large-scale migration to urban areas and neighboring countries.

The term "Bihari" often has a political connotation, particularly in the context of the Bangladesh Liberation War and the 1971 Bangladesh genocide. In this context, the Biharis are often associated with the East Pakistanis who sided with Pakistan during the conflict and were subsequently exiled or massacred by Bengali nationalists.

However, in recent years, the term "Bihari" has also gained a cultural and regional identity in Bangladesh, where Bihari Muslims have assimilated and made significant contributions to the country's politics, economy, and culture.

Today, the Biharis continue to face significant socioeconomic challenges in both India and Bangladesh. Poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and healthcare are just some of the pressing issues that affect the region. Nevertheless, the Biharis remain an integral part of the cultural and historical fabric of the region, with a rich and diverse heritage that continues to shape their identity.