What primary sources are being utilized to rewrite the history of Arakan?

The new research relies on several primary sources. Researchers are examining epigraphic, numismatic, and manuscript archives. They are also studying inscriptions, manuscripts, and archaeological finds within Arakan itself. These local sources provide crucial insights into the region's political, religious, and cultural landscape. These sources offer a counterpoint to colonial accounts.

Why has the history of Arakan been viewed through a limited lens until now?

The history of Arakan has been largely shaped by external perspectives, such as those of European colonial powers and Indo-Persian records. This is primarily due to the neglect of Arakanese sources. The lack of attention to local cultural production like inscriptions, manuscripts, and archaeological evidence has perpetuated a skewed understanding of the region's past. This neglect has resulted in a gap in our knowledge of the local nuances of Arakanese history.

How are inscriptions contributing to the rewriting of Arakanese history?

Inscriptions are providing direct evidence of political events, religious practices, and social structures within Arakan. They are a primary source that allows researchers to understand the region's past from a local perspective, challenging assumptions and constructing a more accurate picture of Arakanese history. By analyzing inscriptions, scholars can gain insights into the complexities of Arakanese society.

What is the significance of manuscripts in understanding Arakan's history?

Manuscripts offer valuable insights into literature, law, and religious beliefs within Arakan. They provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and intellectual life of the region. By studying these manuscripts, researchers can gain a more nuanced appreciation of Arakan's role in the broader Southeast Asian context, and challenge the previously held narratives.

Beyond the archives, what other types of evidence are crucial in understanding Arakan's past, and why are they so important?

Archaeological finds are providing tangible evidence of past settlements, trade networks, and artistic traditions within Arakan. They offer a physical connection to the past, supplementing the information found in inscriptions and manuscripts. Examining archaeological evidence helps to build a more complete picture of Arakan's history, supporting and sometimes challenging the textual and epigraphic data. These finds are crucial because they provide concrete evidence that can be used to corroborate or contest the interpretations drawn from other sources, leading to a more nuanced and accurate understanding of Arakan's past.

Ancient Arakanese inscriptions overlaying a modern map of Rakhine State, symbolizing the connection between past and present.

Unearthing Arakan: How New Studies Rewrite the History of Burma

Soraya Malik in Global Affairs August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Explore how groundbreaking research is challenging long-held assumptions about Arakan's role in Southeast Asian history and its connections to neighboring regions."

For centuries, the region bordering the Bay of Bengal has been a melting pot of cultures, economies, and religions. Within this vibrant zone lies Arakan (Rakhine), a region whose historical significance has often been overshadowed or viewed through a limited lens. Traditionally, Arakan's story has been told from the perspective of European colonial powers or through Indo-Persian records, leaving a gap in our understanding of its local nuances.

Now, a new wave of scholarship is emerging, aiming to rectify this imbalance. By delving into vernacular and Indic language documents produced within Arakan itself, researchers are uncovering a wealth of information that promises to rewrite the region's history. This fresh perspective challenges established narratives and sheds light on Arakan's intricate connections with its neighbors.

This article explores how these new studies are reshaping our understanding of Arakanese history. By examining epigraphic, numismatic, and manuscript archives, we'll uncover the hidden connections, challenge existing narratives, and gain a more nuanced appreciation of Arakan's role in the broader Southeast Asian context.

Why Arakan's History Needs a Rewrite: Overcoming Neglect and Unearthing Local Voices

Ancient Arakanese inscriptions overlaying a modern map of Rakhine State, symbolizing the connection between past and present.

The relative neglect of Arakanese sources has led to a skewed understanding of the region's past. The lack of attention to local cultural production—inscriptions, manuscripts, and archaeological evidence—has perpetuated a narrative largely shaped by external perspectives. This isn't due to a lack of local materials; rather, it stems from the ongoing neglect of Arakan and Arakanese archives by preservationists, archaeologists, and historians, both within and outside Burma.

Fortunately, this is beginning to change. A growing number of scholars are recognizing the importance of engaging with primary sources produced within Arakan. These sources offer invaluable insights into the region's political, religious, and cultural landscape, providing a counterpoint to the often-biased accounts of colonial observers.

Inscriptions: These provide direct evidence of political events, religious practices, and social structures.
Manuscripts: Offering insights into literature, law, and religious beliefs.
Archaeological Finds: Providing tangible evidence of past settlements, trade networks, and artistic traditions.

By examining these materials, researchers are challenging long-held assumptions and constructing a more accurate and nuanced picture of Arakanese history. This involves not only uncovering new information but also reinterpreting existing sources in light of local contexts.

A New Chapter for Arakanese History

The ongoing effort to uncover and interpret Arakanese sources represents a significant step forward in our understanding of Southeast Asian history. By amplifying local voices and challenging colonial narratives, these new studies are paving the way for a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of Arakan's past. As research continues, we can expect further revelations that will continue to reshape our understanding of this fascinating region.