Tradition in Transition: Occupational Change and Social Transformation in the Bagdi Community of Bangladesh

This study examines the occupational transformation and social mobility within the Bagdi community in Chaklapara village located in Jhenaidah District, Bangladesh. Traditionally recognized as a fishing community, the Bagdi people have experienced significant shifts in their livelihoods due to various socio-economic and environmental factors. Using qualitative methods, including interviews, observations, case studies, and focus group discussions, the study explores the causes and consequences of the changes observed in the community. Depleting fish stocks, forced evictions, social stigma, and opportunities for urban migration have led the Bagdi to adopt new occupations, such as day labor, rickshaw puller, hotel worker, and small-scale business. These occupational shifts have contributed to broader social transformations, affecting their economic status, education, marriage patterns, and engagement with modern markets. Drawing on Granovetter's Network Theory and William Haviland's Cultural Change framework, the study analyzes how social networks and cultural adaptation have enabled this transition. Despite the challenges, the Bagdi people demonstrate resilience and adaptability, blending contemporary influences with traditional preservation. Their changing occupations reflect not only economic survival but also progress toward social integration and mobility within society. The findings highlight the dynamic relationship between cultural traditions and modern forces, positioning the Bagdi community for a more inclusive socio-economic future.