According to the Maheshkhali Upazila Agriculture Office, the island is home to around 8,000 betel leaf gardens spread over approximately 1,400 hectares of land. Nearly 13,000 farmers are involved in betel cultivation here.

Betel leaves from Bangladesh, including those from Maheshkhali, are exported to various countries around the world, including the Middle East, earning the nation valuable foreign currency.

Maheshkhali’s sweet betel leaf is not only a local favorite—it is also a cherished part of hospitality across Bangladesh.

The fame of Maheshkhali’s betel leaf has found its way into Bangladeshi songs, stories, and poetry. Today, “Maheshkhali’r Paan” has become more than just a crop—it is a legendary brand celebrated across the country.

Rakhine Community in Maheshkhali

Alongside the Bengali population, more than a thousand Rakhine families live in Maheshkhali. These Rakhines originally migrated from Arakan (now Rakhine State in Myanmar) around 250 years ago.

Belonging to the Mongoloid ethnic group, the Rakhines have distinct language, customs, clothing, and food habits.

Rakhine women spend most of their day weaving the thread on a spinning wheel called “rahi.” With creativity and generational knowledge, they craft colorful fabrics on traditional looms.

Their temples, called “Kyangs,” are built in Indo-Chinese architectural styles and reflect their spiritual and cultural identity.

The Buddha statues in the temple are made of different materials—some are brass, while others are adorned with gold.

For nature lovers, Maheshkhali’s casuarina forest (Jhāu Bon) is an ideal retreat. Beyond its scenic beauty, Maheshkhali is now recognized as Bangladesh’s largest energy hub.

Numerous local and international investors have already invested in the energy sector here.

As a result, in the coming years, Maheshkhali will not only be known for its natural charm but also for its growing industrial and economic significance in Bangladesh.