Museum and the Cultural Representation of Ethnic Communities A Study of the Khudro-Nrigoshthi Museum in Rangamati

Abstract

The "Khudra-Nrigosthi Museum" is situated in Rangamati, one of Bangladesh's hill districts. There are numerous collections of cultural  material from different ethnic communities of Chittagong Hill Tracks (CHT). A significant ethnic group center is the Rangamati  district, particularly for the mountainous tribes known as the "Pahari" people some of them would like to address them as  ―Adibasi” which is not recognized by the government. The study aimed at studying the collections and the display in the museum to  portray cultures and ways of life the ethnic people. It was explored whether there is any consultation with the source communities at  any stage of preparing and producing exhibition at this museum. At the Khudra-Nrigosthi Museum, fieldwork was done to conduct  interviews and undertake questionnaires survey to the local ethnic communities and museum staff to understand the collections, display and their meanings. This field investigation opened a new door for the cultural representation of various ethnic communities.  This will undoubtedly aid in the curatorial work and the development of the museum. To understand the collections and their  meaning, we have documented all the collections on the display and interacted with the museum staff, visitors, and community  members. This provided us with a fresh perspective on the traditions and lifestyles of individuals from many ethnic communities living  in Bangladesh's mountainous regions. It made it easier to comprehend how adaptable our beloved nation is. Most Bengalis have  preconceived notions about the ethnic groups that inhabit the mountainous region because they do not know about the culture,  norms, and practices of the ethnic people. In addition to academic research, it is important to break down these barriers by  introducing visitors to the different cultures that have been entombed in Bangladesh's hills. This will encourage diversity and social  inclusion through museum activities.