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Jagannath Hall Killing Field: A Memorial to the 1971 Liberation War

Reflect on Bangladesh's poignant history at Jagannath Hall Killing Field, a memorial to the 1971 Liberation War, located within Dhaka University.

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Jagannath Hall Killing Field, located within Dhaka University, is a memorial to the tragic events of the 1971 Liberation War. It commemorates the hundreds of students and faculty who lost their lives during Operation Searchlight, particularly on March 25, 1971, when the Pakistani Army targeted the hall, a residence for minority students.

A brief summary to Jagannath Hall Killing Field

  • P9HV+XJ7, Jagannath Hall Inside Rd, Dhaka, Ramna, 1000, BD

Local tips

  • Visit during commemorative events like Victory Day (Dec 16) or Independence Day (Mar 26) for a deeper understanding of its significance.
  • Engage with local guides to gain insightful narratives about the events that transpired here.
  • Dress respectfully and maintain a somber demeanor to honor the memory of the victims.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From within the Dhaka University campus, Jagannath Hall is easily accessible on foot. Navigate towards the central area of the university, and follow signs or ask locals for directions to Jagannath Hall. It's located near other significant university landmarks, making it a straightforward walk. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic within the campus.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Jagannath Hall Killing Field via public transport from within Dhaka, take a bus heading towards Dhaka University or Ramna. Buses are frequent and cost between 10-30 BDT. Disembark near Dhaka University and walk towards Jagannath Hall Inside Road. Orientation can be aided by asking locals for directions, as signage may be limited. Alternatively, Dhaka University now has a shuttle bus service for students that runs from Kabi Sufia Kamal Hall to Nilkhet crossing via Jagannath Hall, SM Hall, Fuller Road and Mall Chattar. Check locally for the most up to date route information.

  • Rickshaw

    From any point within Dhaka, a rickshaw is a convenient way to reach Jagannath Hall. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically ranging from 100-200 BDT for a ride within the Dhaka University area. Instruct the rickshaw driver to take you to 'Jagannath Hall Inside Road' within the university campus.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao can drop you off directly at the entrance of Dhaka University. From there, it's a short walk or rickshaw ride to Jagannath Hall. A taxi/ride-share from a central Dhaka location to Dhaka University will likely cost between 150-500 BDT, depending on traffic and distance.

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Discover more about Jagannath Hall Killing Field

Jagannath Hall Killing Field is a deeply significant historical site located within the grounds of Dhaka University in Bangladesh. It serves as a permanent memorial to the tragic events of the 1971 Liberation War, specifically the mass killings that occurred on the night of March 25th, during Operation Searchlight. This operation, launched by the Pakistani Army, targeted intellectuals, students, and minority groups, with Jagannath Hall, a predominantly Hindu dormitory, becoming a primary target. On that fateful night, the Pakistani Army encircled the hall, set fire to the buildings, and indiscriminately opened fire on the residents. Many were killed in their sleep, while others were dragged out and executed. The exact number of casualties remains unknown, but it is estimated that over 300 people lost their lives in this single location. Among the victims were prominent professors like Jyotirmoy Guhathakurta and Govinda Chandra Dev, whose contributions to education and philosophy were cut short by the violence. The events at Jagannath Hall were part of a larger campaign of genocide aimed at suppressing the Bengali nationalist movement. The Pakistani Army sought to eliminate any opposition to their rule, and Dhaka University, as a center of intellectual and political activity, was seen as a threat. The killings at Jagannath Hall were intended to send a message of terror and to discourage further resistance. In the aftermath of the war, Jagannath Hall Killing Field was transformed into a memorial site to honor the victims and to preserve the memory of the events that took place there. The site features several monuments and plaques that commemorate the fallen and provide information about the history of the massacre. The most prominent memorial is a large, open space where visitors can reflect on the tragedy and pay their respects. Today, Jagannath Hall continues to serve as a residence for students, and it is also a popular destination for tourists and locals who come to learn about the history of the Liberation War. The hall is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and to visit the memorial site. Visiting Jagannath Hall Killing Field is a deeply moving experience. The atmosphere is heavy with sorrow and remembrance, and it is impossible to ignore the human cost of the war. The site serves as a reminder of the importance of peace, tolerance, and understanding, and it encourages visitors to learn from the past and to work towards a better future.

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