The Nepalese of Bangladesh Many Nepalese fled from Nepal when it became a nation-state in the 1950's. To escape the demands of the state and enhance their standard of living, they settled in various parts of northern India , as well as the neighboring countries of Myanmar , Bangladesh , and Bhutan . Although once part of the vast Indian Empire, Bangladesh separated in 1947 to become an independent nation. It is a poor country, and its citizens lead simple lives.
Overpopulation is perhaps the most serious problem.
The country's official language is Bengali, but the Nepalese population speaks Khas Kura, a form of Nepali. Although they have always worked as farmers, the Nepalese have recently begun encouraging their children to leave the crowded rural areas for more secure jobs in the cities. Most of the Nepalese in Bangladesh are farmers. They live in small village settlements that are situated near rivers or springs. The villages consist of loosely grouped homes surrounded by farm land.