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Dhaka City Museum: A Glimpse into the Past

Discover Dhaka's vibrant past at the City Museum, showcasing historical relics and cultural heritage, offering a unique glimpse into the city's evolution and traditions.

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The Dhaka City Museum, also known as Dhaka Nagar Jadughar, is a local museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history, heritage, and culture of Dhaka city. Established in 1987, it offers visitors a glimpse into the city's evolution through an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents. Housed within the Nagar Bhaban, the museum aims to create awareness about Dhaka's traditions, highlight its problems, and preserve important historical documents. While modest in size, it provides valuable insights into the city's past, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in Dhaka's history and cultural identity. The museum's exhibits include historical photographs, publications, coins, and items related to notable figures and events in Dhaka's history.

A brief summary to Dhaka City Museum

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby historical sites to get a broader understanding of Dhaka's history.
  • Check for temporary exhibitions or special events that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kamalapur Railway Station, take a local bus towards Motijheel. Alight at the Motijheel Shapla Chattar stop. From there, Dhaka City Museum in Nagar Bhaban is approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Bus fare is approximately 10-20 BDT.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Shahbag, a taxi or ride-sharing service (like Uber or Pathao) to Nagar Bhaban typically costs between 150-250 BDT, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes 15-30 minutes.

  • Rickshaw

    From Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, a rickshaw ride to Nagar Bhaban will cost around 30-50 BDT and take approximately 10-15 minutes. Negotiate the fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Dhaka City Museum

Dhaka City Museum, known locally as Dhaka Nagar Jadughar, stands as a repository of the city's vibrant past, nestled within the Nagar Bhaban. Founded on June 20, 1987, by Professor Muntassir Mamoon, along with other prominent figures like Professor Sirajul Islam, town-planner Nazrul Islam, architect Rabiul Hussain, and artist Hashem Khan, the museum initially operated as a private establishment with the core mission of safeguarding Dhaka's historical relics and cultural heritage. In its early years, the museum found its home in an ancient house in Panch Bhai Lane, a historic part of old Dhaka. Over time, it moved to several locations before the Dhaka City Corporation recognized its significance. On July 20, 1996, the City Corporation officially took over the museum, with the transfer program inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, marking a new chapter in the museum's journey. Today, the Dhaka City Museum occupies a hall on the fifth floor of the Nagar Bhaban, the headquarters of the Dhaka South City Corporation. Governed by a Trustee Board under the City Corporation, the museum continues its mission to educate and engage the public with Dhaka's rich history and artistic achievements. The museum strives to raise awareness of the city's traditions, shed light on its challenges, and preserve crucial documents related to Dhaka's evolution. The museum's collection includes a variety of artifacts that narrate the story of Dhaka. Visitors can explore historical photographs that capture the city's changing landscapes and significant events. The exhibits also feature old coins, reflecting the economic history of the region, and historical publications that offer insights into the intellectual and cultural life of Dhaka. Newspaper cuttings document important moments in the city's past, while photographs of notable figures and Language Movement martyrs honor those who shaped Dhaka's identity. Despite its noble intentions, the Dhaka City Museum has faced challenges in recent years. Some reports suggest that the museum has struggled to attract visitors and maintain its exhibits to the highest standards. Relocation to the government office has been cited as a reason for the decline in visitor numbers, highlighting the importance of accessibility and promotion in ensuring a museum's success. However, efforts are underway to revitalize the museum and enhance its appeal to both locals and tourists. Visiting the Dhaka City Museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the heart of Dhaka's history. While it may not be as grand as some of the larger museums in the city, its focus on Dhaka's specific heritage sets it apart. The museum provides a valuable educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with the city's past and gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural significance. As Dhaka continues to evolve, the City Museum serves as a reminder of the city's roots and the stories that have shaped its identity. For those planning a visit, it's worth noting that the museum is located within the Nagar Bhaban, which is also the office of the Dhaka South City Corporation. This means that the museum is open during regular office hours, typically from 8 am to 7 pm, Sunday through Thursday. Admission is free, making it accessible to all. While the museum may not be as widely known as other attractions in Dhaka, it offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the city's past, making it a worthwhile addition to any cultural itinerary. Dhaka itself is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend with modern developments. Exploring the city's historical sites, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural scene provides a rich and immersive experience. From the Mughal-era architecture of Lalbagh Fort to the serene beauty of the Dhakeshwari Temple, Dhaka offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to different interests. The Dhaka City Museum complements these attractions by providing a focused look at the city's specific history and heritage, adding depth and context to the overall visitor experience. In conclusion, the Dhaka City Museum is a valuable cultural institution that plays an important role in preserving and promoting the history of Dhaka. While it may face challenges in terms of resources and visitor numbers, its commitment to showcasing the city's heritage remains unwavering. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Dhaka's past, a visit to the City Museum is a rewarding and enlightening experience. The museum aims to bring to public notice, through the display of different material mementoes, the eventful history and artistic works of Dhaka city. It also seeks to create awareness about the tradition among the citizens, grow consciousness in the minds of the city-dwellers by throwing light on numerous problems of Dhaka City, and preserve different important documents relating to Dhaka City. Exhibits include an ancient printing press, some old coins, various historical publications and newspaper cuttings, photographs of various nawabs of Dhaka, Language Movement martyrs, and a few notable persons of Dhaka.

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