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Cumilla Town Hall: A Historical Landmark

Discover Cumilla Town Hall: A historic landmark and cultural hub in the heart of Cumilla, where history, culture, and community converge.

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Cumilla Town Hall, officially known as Birchandra Public Library and City Auditorium, stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark in the heart of Cumilla. Established in 1855 by Maharaja Birchandra Manikya Bahadur of Tripura, it has served as a center for education, culture, and socio-political activities for over a century. The Town Hall has hosted numerous prominent figures, including Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Today, it continues to function as a public library and a venue for various community events, embodying the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of Cumilla. Despite facing challenges and proposals for modernization, the Town Hall remains a cherished symbol of the city's identity, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past and ongoing cultural significance. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a focal point for exploring Cumilla's urban landscape.

A brief summary to Cumilla Town Hall

Local tips

  • Check the local event listings for cultural performances, exhibitions, or community gatherings happening at the Town Hall during your visit.
  • Explore the Town Hall's library, which houses a vast collection of books in Bengali and English, offering insights into the region's literary and intellectual history.
  • Take a stroll around the Town Hall grounds to admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere of this historic landmark.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Kandirpar intersection, walk west along the main road. Cumilla Town Hall will be on your left, a short 2-minute walk. Look for the distinctive building set back from the road.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at Jangalia Bus Stand, take a local auto-rickshaw (CNG) to Kandirpar (approx. 30-40 BDT). From there, it's a short walk to the Town Hall. Alternatively, any bus heading towards Kandirpar will drop you within walking distance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Cumilla Railway Station to Cumilla Town Hall will cost approximately 80-120 BDT, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes. Direct the driver to Kandirpar, the central area where the Town Hall is located.

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Discover more about Cumilla Town Hall

Cumilla Town Hall, also known as Birchandra Public Library and City Auditorium, is more than just a building; it's a living testament to the history, culture, and spirit of Cumilla. Founded on May 8, 1855, by Maharaja Birchandra Manikya Bahadur of the princely state of Tripura, this institution has been a cornerstone of the community for over a century. Situated in Kandirpar, the heart of Cumilla, the Town Hall occupies a 3.43-acre site and has witnessed countless pivotal moments in the region's history. The Town Hall's origins lie in a request from the then Deputy Commissioner, FH Screen, to Naresh Maharaj, the Zamindar of Chakla Roshnabad in Tripura district, for land to construct a library. Maharaja Birchandra Manikya Bahadur generously funded the construction of the building, which initially served as a public library and city auditorium. Over the years, it has evolved into a multifaceted institution, hosting a wide range of events, from cultural performances and political rallies to educational seminars and community gatherings. The Town Hall's library is a treasure trove of knowledge, housing an extensive collection of books in both Bengali and English. With over 24,000 Bengali books and 6,000 English books, the library caters to a diverse readership. The collection includes encyclopedias, historical texts like Rajmala, and works by renowned poets, literary figures, political thinkers, and religious scholars from around the world. Members can borrow books, while others can study within the hall's premises. The ground floor also provides access to a wide array of national, regional, and local newspapers and periodicals. The Town Hall has been graced by the presence of numerous luminaries from the Indian subcontinent. Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Sher-e-Bangla AK Fazlul Haque, Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, and Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah are just a few of the prominent figures who have addressed audiences at the Town Hall. Their speeches and appearances have left an indelible mark on the institution's legacy. The Town Hall has also played a significant role in the political and social movements that have shaped the region. It served as a hub for activists and organizers during the Language Movement of 1952 and the Liberation War of 1971, bearing witness to the struggles and sacrifices that led to the birth of Bangladesh. Despite its rich history and cultural significance, the Cumilla Town Hall has faced numerous challenges in recent years. Proposals to demolish the historic structure and replace it with a modern complex have sparked widespread protests from cultural activists, civil society members, and local residents. These advocates argue that the Town Hall is an integral part of Cumilla's heritage and should be preserved for future generations. In response to these concerns, efforts have been made to rejuvenate and revitalize the Town Hall while respecting its historical character. Renovation projects have aimed to modernize the facilities while preserving the building's original architecture and cultural significance. These efforts seek to strike a balance between preserving the past and adapting to the needs of a growing urban population. Visiting Cumilla Town Hall offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the city's rich cultural heritage. The building's architecture reflects a blend of colonial and local styles, with intricate craftsmanship and elegant design elements. The surrounding grounds provide a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city, offering a space for relaxation and reflection. Visitors can explore the library's extensive collection, attend cultural events and performances, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this historic landmark. The Town Hall's central location makes it easily accessible to other attractions in Cumilla, such as the Mainamati Museum, the World War II War Cemetery, and various religious sites. As Cumilla continues to evolve and modernize, the Town Hall stands as a reminder of the city's past and a symbol of its enduring cultural identity. Its preservation and revitalization are essential to ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from this invaluable historical landmark. Today, the Cumilla Town Hall continues to host diverse events, including traditional games, further cementing its role as a community hub. Whether it's a cultural program, a political gathering, or a simple afternoon of reading in the library, the Town Hall remains a vibrant and essential part of Cumilla's social fabric. Its story is a testament to the enduring power of community, culture, and the preservation of historical landmarks in a rapidly changing world.

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