Rajshahi

Rajshahi is one of the major cities of Bangladesh, located in the northwestern part of the country, on the banks of the Padma River. It is the administrative center of Rajshahi Division and Rajshahi District. The city is often called the “Education City” or “Silk City” for its remarkable educational institutions and silk industries.Rajshahi is one of the major cities of Bangladesh, located in the northwestern part of the country on the banks of the Padma River. It is the administrative center of the Rajshahi Division and one of the country’s oldest and most culturally rich cities.Rajshahi is one of the major cities of Bangladesh, located in the northwestern part of the country on the banks of the Padma River. It is the administrative center of the Rajshahi Division and one of the country’s oldest and most culturally rich cities. Rajshahi has a rich and ancient history that reflects the cultural and political evolution of Bengal. The region has been an important center of education, trade, and religion for centuries.

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Ancient Period

The area now known as Rajshahi was part of the ancient Pundra Kingdom, which existed around 700 BCE. Archaeological evidence shows that the region was inhabited by advanced civilizations long before recorded history. It was influenced by the Maurya and Gupta Empires, which spread Buddhism and Hinduism in the area.

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Medieval Period

During the Muslim rule, Rajshahi became a significant administrative and cultural center under the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire. The Bagha Mosque, built in 1523 by Sultan Nasiruddin Nasrat Shah, stands as a testimony to the city’s glorious past.

The area also became famous for its silk production, which later earned it the name “Silk City.”

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British Colonial Period

In 1793, the Permanent Settlement Act introduced by the British affected the local zamindars (landlords) and farmers. Rajshahi gained importance as a trading post for silk, indigo, and agricultural goods.

In 1876, Rajshahi was officially declared a municipality, marking the beginning of its modern urban development. The British also established educational institutions, such as Rajshahi College (1873), which became one of the earliest colleges in Bengal.

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Post-Independence Era

After the Partition of India in 1947, Rajshahi became part of East Pakistan. The city continued to grow as an educational and administrative center. After the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, Rajshahi expanded rapidly and became the headquarters of Rajshahi Division.

Today, Rajshahi is known for its clean environment, educational institutions, mangoes, silk industry, and historical heritage.

Rajshahi is a major metropolitan city in northwestern Bangladesh, and the administrative seat of the eponymous division and district. It's often known by a few distinct titles:

• "Silk City": Rajshahi is historically famous for its production of high-quality silk, with the region accounting for almost the entire silk output of Bangladesh.
• "City of Education": It is home to many renowned institutions, including the University of Rajshahi, one of the country's largest and oldest public universities.
• "City of Mangoes": The region, particularly with the neighboring Chapainawabganj district, is renowned for its production of sweet, high-quality mangoes, and other fruits like lychees. Several varieties of mango, including Fazli, Khirsapat, and Langra, have received Geographical Indication (GI) status.

Key Facts & Attractions:

• Location: It is situated on the north bank of the Padma River (the main distributary of the Ganges in Bangladesh).
• History: The region lies in the ancient area of Pundravardhana. The modern city's foundation is often traced to the 17th century, and it became an important administrative and commercial center during the British Raj.
• Culture & Heritage:
  • Varendra Research Museum: The oldest museum in Bangladesh, dedicated to the ancient history and culture of the region, housing artifacts related to Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim heritage.
  • Puthia Temple Complex: Located nearby, this complex features a remarkable collection of ancient Hindu temples with intricate terracotta artwork.
  • Shrine of Shah Makhdum Rupos: A historic tomb and shrine of the first preacher of Islam in the region.
• Environment: It is frequently cited as one of the cleanest and most environmentally friendly cities in Bangladesh.