RCMC Calligraphy Masterclass: Preserving Rohingya Language Utilizing Hanafi Script

Cox’s Bazar, 13 February 2025: Language is one of the most essential cultural elements for any ethnic group. In the case of ethnic minority groups like the Rohingya, preserving the Rohingya mother tongue as intangible cultural heritage is particularly significant, especially given the current sociocultural dynamics in the world’s largest refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. As part of the preservation process, it is important to document the Rohingya language and its elements for future generations, while maintaining its distinctive linguistic characteristics.

RCMC’s Rohingya Calligraphy Masterclass is one such initiative that contributes to preserving the linguistic heritage of the Rohingya people by teaching calligraphy as a visual art form using the Rohingya Hanafi Script. Conducted at RCMC, the masterclass provides participants with the skills to write in their native script, fostering cultural identity and artistic expression. By promoting this traditional script, the initiative not only strengthens the community’s connection to its heritage but also ensures the continuity of Rohingya written traditions for future generations.

The masterclass is structured to ensure participants easily grasp the basic elements of the Rohingya language in the Hanafi Script, starting from the alphabet to tone marks and their usage. Once the participants have a clear understanding of the script, they are introduced to the concept of calligraphy, using traditional Rohingya proverbs, poems, and generational wisdom. Initially, they practice on slate with chalk, gradually transitioning to cartridge paper, where they write calligraphy using traditional bamboo reed pens. 

RCMC is the first to promote our language and the Hanafi script through various activities like the ‘Rohingya Calligraphy Masterclass.’ Ideally, we should have initiated this effort, but they approached us with their proposal to preserve and promote the Rohingya language through the Hanafi script. We truly appreciate this initiative and are hopeful that our language will be well-documented and preserved for future generations. --Abdul Aziz, Rohingya Youth Activist