Understanding the Philosophy of the Way of Rakhita

By Rhee Rakha

Opinions                                                                           August 22, 2025

Chairperson of the ULA (photocrd)

Arakan, a land steeped in history along the Bay of Bengal, carries a vision for its future rooted in the philosophy of the “Way of Rakhita.” This philosophy shapes Arakan’s aspirations for self-determination, guiding its people toward a sovereign, secure, and prosperous nation. Grounded in a positive form of nationalism, defined by four core principles, and culminating in the “Arakan Dream,” the Way of Rakhita offers a framework for uniting diverse communities and addressing historical challenges.

What is the Way of Rakhita?

The Way of Rakhita draws its strength from the positive side of Arakanese nationalism, a force that celebrates cultural heritage and unity without fostering division or exclusion. Unlike nationalism that thrives on antagonism, this approach emphasizes pride in Arakan’s rich history—once a thriving maritime kingdom—while embracing all its communities. This inclusive nationalism seeks to restore Arakan’s identity, eroded since the Burmese conquest in 1784, by fostering a shared sense of belonging. It rejects the marginalization experienced under Myanmar’s central governance, instead promoting a collective identity that values diversity and mutual respect. By focusing on unity and cultural revival, this nationalism inspires Arakanese communities to work together toward a future where their heritage is celebrated, and their rights are secured.

A Beautiful Scene in Mrauk-U, Ancient Kingdom of Arakan (photocrd)

The philosophy is built on four interconnected principles: nationalism, militarism, historical revisionism, and pragmatism. First, nationalism, as described, is a constructive force that unites rather than divides, anchoring Arakan’s identity in its historical and cultural legacy while embracing inclusivity and diversity. Second, militarism underscores the necessity of a strong, disciplined military to achieve national liberation and ensure security. Arakan’s history of external domination highlights the need for a robust defense to protect its sovereignty and safeguard its people from threats, including the Myanmar military’s aggression.

Third, historical revisionism calls for a critical examination of past mistakes, such as internal divisions while relying on other sides or failures to resist external control, to draw lessons that strengthen current efforts. By learning from history, Arakan can avoid repeating errors and build a more resilient path forward. Finally, pragmatism prioritizes practical solutions over ideological rigidity, focusing on achievable steps toward liberation and development. This principle ensures that Arakan’s strategies remain adaptable, addressing immediate needs like economic growth and security while pursuing long-term goals.

These principles collectively shape the Way of Rakhita, providing a roadmap for Arakan’s transformation. Nationalism fosters unity, militarism secures the region, historical revisionism informs strategy, and pragmatism ensures actionable progress. Together, they address Arakan’s challenges—such as underdevelopment, ethnic tensions, and external pressures—while aligning with the region’s aspirations for self-determination.

Local Festival in Mrauk-U (photocrd)

Future Vision

At the heart of the Way of Rakhita lies the “Arakan Dream,” a vision to build a sovereign, secure, stable, prosperous, equal, and dignified nation for all Arakanese communities. This dream envisions Arakan as an autonomous entity, free from external control, where governance prioritizes the well-being of its people. Sovereignty ensures that Arakan’s resources, from its fertile lands to its coastal trade routes, benefit its communities rather than foreign powers, such as those eyeing projects like the Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone. Security, bolstered by a strong military, protects against internal and external threats, creating a stable environment for development.

Prosperity emerges from economic initiatives that leverage Arakan’s strategic location, fostering trade with neighbors like Bangladesh and investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Equality ensures that all communities share in the benefits of progress, addressing historical inequities and fostering inclusivity. Dignity restores Arakan’s pride as a nation, allowing its people to live with self-respect and global recognition.

Muslims in Local Market (photocrd)

The Way of Rakhita offers Arakan a path to overcome various challenges by blending idealism with practicality. Its positive nationalism unites diverse communities, militarism secures the region’s future, historical revisionism learns from the past, and pragmatism drives actionable progress. Together, these principles fuel the Arakan Dream, envisioning a nation where sovereignty empowers self-governance, security ensures peace, and prosperity uplifts all. Arakan’s strategic location and resilient spirit position it to achieve this vision, provided its communities embrace unity and its leaders navigate challenges with wisdom.

In embracing the Way of Rakhita, Arakan charts a course toward a future where its people—regardless of ethnicity—live in a nation that is sovereign, secure, and prosperous. This philosophy calls on the international community to recognize Arakan’s aspirations and support its journey toward self-determination. By adhering to its principles, Arakan can transform its challenges into opportunities, building a nation that stands as a beacon of equality, dignity, and hope.