Dhaka, one of the most populous cities in the world, is among the cities few have been to. Despite of the reputation it has gained over time as one of the most chaotic cities on earth, undoubtedly it has a unique charm all of its own. It never fails to touch a visitor- through the liveliness of the narrow zigzag streets of old Dhaka, or the feeling of ice cold sugarcane juice in the summer heat, or the festivals that colour life itself.
History suggests, Dhaka started as a Buddhist settlement by the river Buriganga, literally meaning Old Ganges, certainly since the 8th century and has expanded to be known as a Megacity today; and according to the experts to be the largest accommodation in the world within 10 years. The blend of such past with present has given it its unique flavor. For example the Bakorkhani, a baking tradition that dates back to the Mughal period; Shakhrain Kite Festival, which includes the tradition of Fire Eating; the Bengali festivals known as Pohela Baishakh, the new year celebration according to the Bengali calendar, and Pohela Falgun the festivities welcoming the arrival of Spring amongst others.
Besides the cultural attributes, its historical significance has attracted a number of civilizations throughout time - signs still can be seen in form of palaces, forts, buildings and diversity in architecture. Ahsan Manjil or The Pink Palace, Lalbagh Fort, the Bara and Choto Katra (Mughal period palaces), the crowd of Chawkbazar, Mughal period mosques like Star Mosque and Shahbaz Mosque, and 11th century Dhakeshwari Temple, the momentous National Assembly Building designed by the great Louis I. Kahn, and countless other sites.
All these are testimonies to its rich past and are among the points of attraction for the tourists and locals equally. Many of these places are famous tourist destinations today, under the department of archeology, and many not taken proper care of and getting lost in time.
Besides the cultural attributes, its historical significance has attracted a number of civilizations throughout time - signs still can be seen in form of palaces, forts, buildings and diversity in architecture. Ahsan Manjil or The Pink Palace, Lalbagh Fort, the Bara and Choto Katra (Mughal period palaces), the crowd of Chawkbazar, Mughal period mosques like Star Mosque and Shahbaz Mosque, and 11th century Dhakeshwari Temple, the momentous National Assembly Building designed by the great Louis I. Kahn, and countless other sites.
All these are testimonies to its rich past and are among the points of attraction for the tourists and locals equally. Many of these places are famous tourist destinations today, under the department of archeology, and many not taken proper care of and getting lost in time.
In this blog we have tried to highlight the rich history and culture of this fabulous city, and put together scattered information of people, places and lifestyle that make Dhaka the unique city it is. Please feel free to help us understand this city better, by sharing your experiences and stories. No matter where you live in Dhaka, do share with us your stories and interesting places around you, so that we can share it with the world through this blog.
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