A Cultural, Culinary, and Historical Journey
Dhaka is the capital and largest city in Bangladesh with a rich history, culture, and traditions. The narrative of Dhaka’s historical lineage in South Asia features as a centre of political and cultural significance since ancient times. Its past stretches back more than a millennium making it among the oldest in the region. Dhaka is known for its vibrant dynamics, historical sites, and culture reflected in the city’s notable people, places, and cuisine.
Historical Overview
The seventh century CE marks the beginning of Dhaka’s history, as it became part of the ancient kingdom of Bengal. Consequently, at the start of the 17th century, Dhaka was established as the capital of the Mughal Empire in Bengal. The city thrived under the leadership of Subahdar Islam Khan (1608–1613). Dhaka was designated the provincial capital, and Jahangirnagar was renamed in honour of the Mughal emperor Jahangir. This observation holds significance during the period of Subahdar Islam Khan.
Dhaka became a notable trading hub over the centuries, particularly famous for its muslin, an exquisite cotton fabric that became highly sought after to Europe and Asia. During the British colonial period, which began in the 18th century, Dhaka started to lose importance as Kolkata (now Kolkata) became the main capital of the colonial government. Yet, Dhaka remained an important centre of cultural and economic life in Bengal.
During the partition of India in 1947, Dhaka was designated as the capital of East Bengal, which later became East Pakistan. It played a vital role in the nation’s struggle for independence. Following the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, Dhaka emerged as the capital of the newly independent Bangladesh.
Renowned People of Dhaka
Over the history of its existence, Dhaka has been the birthplace of several influential people in different sectors, from politics to literature, the arts, and sports. Here are some of the most prominent names:
Father of the Nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was a pivotal figure in the fight for Bangladeshi independence. His leadership during the 1971 Liberation War commemorated, and his legacy continues to be prominent in Bangladesh’s political landscape.
Begum Rokeya – Advocate of Women’s Rights and Education in Bengal, Begum Rokeya was the prominent lady of the era who worked for Women Empowerment and Literacy. Her literary contributions, notably Sultana’s Dream, continue to resonate with feminist communities.
4.Steaming Pungent: 19 Author Names in Bengali) Humayun Ahmed –One of the most popular Bangladeshi authors, playwright, and filmmaker. He specialized in writing about the struggles and beauty of everyday life in Bangladesh.
Dr Muhammad Yunus is a Nobel-prize winner and the founder of the Grameen Bank, which pioneered microfinance and microcredit, lifting millions from poverty and empowering rural Bangladesh.
Shakib Al Hasan – The greatest all-rounder the game has ever produced, Shakib Al Hasan has put Bangladesh cricket on the map, drawing international attention to the team.
Tourist Attractions in Dhaka
History: With so many historical, cultural, and modern attractions, Dhaka boasts a rich heritage. Among the major places to visit are:
Lalbagh Fort – Lalbagh Fort is a Mughal fort complex that dates to the 17th century. The incomplete structure is a monument to Dhaka’s Mughal heritage. It includes beautiful gardens, a mosque and the tomb of Bibi Pari, the daughter of a Mughal governor.
Ahsan Manzil This gorgeous pink palace used to be the official residence of the Nawab of Dhaka and is now a museum. It reflects the lavish lifestyle of the city’s aristocracy in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Shahid Minar – A national monument honouring martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement, the Shahid Minar epitomizes Bengali linguistic pride and the fight to protect the Bengali language.
The Dhakeshwari Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Dhaka and holds immense significance for the local Hindu community. It is thought that the temple’s name influenced the city’s name.
Understand the History and Culture of Bangladesh: Bangladesh National Museum – If you are into the history and culture of Bangladesh, the National Museum collection is a well-rounded collection including ancient sculptures, manuscripts, and artworks.
Sadarghat – Situated on the Buriganga River, Dhaka’s busy river port Sadarghat is a busy activity area where visitors can witness traditional wooden boats, hectic trade, and life on the river.
Traditional Dishes of Dhaka
Dhaka has a unique and varied culinary heritage, shaped over the centuries by many different influences, from Mughal and Persian to Bengali and British traditions. It is world-renowned for its delicious and flavourful food, with a focus on rice, fish, and meat. Here are some of the must-try traditional dishes:
Biriyani – The biriyani of Dhaka is particularly renowned due to its different methods and aromas. The dish — which originated under the Mughals, who brought centuries of Persian influence to the Indian subcontinent — is made with basmati rice, aromatic spices, meat (most often mutton or chicken) and potatoes layered with one another and cooked together in a spiced broth. The famous type is the Old Dhaka Kacchi Biriyani.
Bhuna Khichuri – A comforting bowl of rice and lentils, bhuna khichuri is usually a monsoon food. It is usually served with fried eggplant, beef curry or spicy pickles.
Fuchka (Pani Puri) – This street food variety includes hollow puris filled with spicy tamarind water, mashed potatoes, and chickpeas. Fuchka, with its piquant, peppery zing, is a favourite of residents and visitors alike.
Ilish Mach Bhuna – Ilish (Hilsa fish) is Bangladesh national fish, and it is a must have during holiday in Dhaka. Ilish Mach Bhuna — A spiced hilsa fish cooked in mustard oil, with green chilies and spices.
Bakarkhani – A kind of flatbread, bakarkhani is commonly had with tea, sweets. Crunchy in texture and mildly sweet, it is a popular snack in Old Dhaka.
Mishti Doi A stewed dessert originating from West Bengal, Mishti Doi, is yogurt sweetened and spiced with cardamom, sometimes topped with pistachios or almonds. It is creamy and ever so sweet, making for a delightful finish to the meal.
Conclusion
With roots as a Mughal provincial capital, Dhaka is a city that connects history and modernity, a thriving metropolis in transition. It has a colourful past, peppered with remarkable people, iconic sites and a food heritage that still goes on to inspire locals as well as guests. Whether you are wondering the historic streets of Old Dhaka, you are visiting this cultural monument or you are tasting its traditional dishes Dhaka presents a colourful and memorable experience that reveals the hearth and soul of Bangladesh.