History of Old Dhaka

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, boasts a rich history that dates back over a millennium. Here’s a detailed look into its historical journey: 

Early History and Foundation Ancient and Early Medieval Period: 

 Prehistoric Settlements: Archaeological findings suggest that the area now known as Dhaka has been inhabited since ancient times, with some evidence pointing to settlements dating back to the 7th century. Early Names and Mentions: Dhaka’s earliest recorded name is "Dacca," mentioned in historical texts. It has also been associated with the name "Bikrampur," a nearby ancient city. Medieval Period: 

 

Sultanate Era: 

Dhaka began to gain prominence during the Sultanate period (13th-16th centuries) when it was part of the Bengal Sultanate. The city started to develop under the rule of the various sultans. Mughal Period: The real transformation of Dhaka began in 1608 when it was established as the provincial capital of Bengal Subah under Mughal rule by Subahdar Islam Khan I. The Mughals contributed significantly to the city’s infrastructure, with notable constructions like Lalbagh Fort and various mosques. 

Mughal Era (1608-1717) 

Capital of Bengal: Dhaka flourished as a key administrative and commercial center during this period. It was renowned for its fine muslin textiles, which were exported across the world. Urban Development: The city saw significant urban development, with the construction of gardens, palaces, and religious buildings. The Mughal period also marked the rise of Dhaka as a bustling metropolis with a diverse population. 

Colonial Period (1757-1947) 

British East India Company and British Raj: After the Battle of Plassey in 1757, Dhaka fell under British control. The city experienced a decline in importance during the early British period but began to recover in the 19th century. Economic and Social Changes: The British introduced railways, modern education, and new administrative systems. Dhaka's economy diversified, although the traditional muslin industry suffered due to British policies favoring British textiles. 1905 Partition of Bengal: Dhaka became the capital of Eastern Bengal and Assam during this short-lived partition, spurring some economic growth and infrastructural development. Post-Colonial Period.

Partition of India (1947): 

Becoming Part of Pakistan: Following the partition, Dhaka became the capital of East Bengal (later East Pakistan) under the dominion of Pakistan. This period saw significant political unrest and demands for greater autonomy. 

Language Movement (1952): 

Bengali Language Movement: Dhaka was the epicenter of the movement advocating for the recognition of Bengali as one of the state languages of Pakistan. The movement's culmination on February 21, 1952, is commemorated annually as International Mother Language Day. 

Liberation War (1971): 

Bangladesh Independence: The city played a pivotal role during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Dhaka was the site of major conflicts and atrocities. The war concluded with the independence of Bangladesh on December 16, 1971, with Dhaka becoming the capital of the new nation. Modern Era Post-Independence Growth: Since gaining independence, Dhaka has experienced rapid growth and urbanization. It has transformed into a major economic, political, and cultural hub in South Asia. Challenges and Development: The city faces significant challenges, including overpopulation, traffic congestion, and environmental issues. However, it continues to grow with investments in infrastructure, education, and industry. 

Cultural and Architectural Heritage 

Historical Monuments: Dhaka is home to numerous historical monuments from different periods, including the Ahsan Manzil, the Star Mosque, and the Lalbagh Fort. 

 

Cultural Melting Pot: 

The city’s culture is a blend of its historical legacy, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Dhaka hosts vibrant celebrations of Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh) and other cultural festivals. Dhaka’s history is a testament to its resilience and ability to adapt through centuries of change, making it a city with a rich past and a dynamic present.