The Garo

Garo-Dance

Demographically speaking, the Garos are the largest indigenous race in Bangladesh. With around 7 million populations, they are spread over Mymensingh, Jamalpur, Sherpur, Netrokona and Tangail disrricta. There are also settlements of the Garos in some parts of the gresater Sylhet district, but the Indian state of Meghaloy is considered to be the land of origin of the Garos. The male and female ratio of the Garo population is almost equal and the society is divided into seven main groups. Rice is their staple food. They cook it in earthenware and at times in green bamboo funnels. The indigenous wine panchui is considered to be very important in their life and culture. It is an indispensable drink in religious ceremonies, social festivals and entertainment of guests. Connected with jhum cultivation, wangala is their biggest social festival. The first two days of the festival are observed by dancing and drinking panchui.