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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.