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Jalladkhana Killing Field: A Memorial to Atrocities

A poignant memorial in Dhaka, Bangladesh, commemorating the victims of the 1971 Liberation War and standing as a testament to the resilience of the Bengali people.

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Jalladkhana Killing Field, also known as the Butcher's Den, stands as a chilling reminder of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Located in Mirpur, Dhaka, this site was used by the Pakistani Army and their local collaborators to systematically execute and dispose of thousands of Bengali people. Excavations in 1999 unearthed a mass grave containing skulls, bones, and personal belongings of the victims, transforming the area into a memorial. Today, visitors can reflect on the poignant history, view recovered artifacts, and pay respects to those who perished. The site serves as a place of remembrance, education, and a call for justice, ensuring that the sacrifices made during the war are never forgotten. It is a place to reflect on the cost of freedom and the importance of standing against oppression, offering a somber yet essential experience for anyone seeking to understand the history of Bangladesh.

A brief summary to Jalladkhana Killing Field

  • R96G+F33, Dhaka, Mirpur, 1216, BD

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more comfortable experience, as Dhaka can be very hot and humid.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a site of remembrance and mourning.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or contacting the Liberation War Museum for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Mirpur 10 Circle, a major transport hub, Jalladkhana Killing Field is a short ride away. You can take a local bus or an auto-rickshaw (CNG) heading towards Benarshi Palli. Ask to be dropped off at the first gate of Benarshi Palli; from there, it's a short walk to the memorial. Bus fare typically costs around 10-20 BDT, and CNG fare ranges from 30-50 BDT depending on negotiation.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Mirpur, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber, Pathao) is a convenient option. Use the destination 'Jalladkhana Killing Field' or the address 'R96G+F33, Dhaka 1216'. The ride will typically cost between 80-150 BDT depending on the distance and traffic conditions. Be aware that fares may increase during peak hours.

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Discover more about Jalladkhana Killing Field

Jalladkhana Killing Field, a name that translates to “Butcher’s Den,” is a haunting memorial site in Mirpur, Dhaka, bearing witness to the atrocities committed during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. This somber location serves as a stark reminder of the systematic genocide carried out by the Pakistani Army and their local collaborators against the Bengali population. Once an abandoned water pump house, it was transformed into a site of mass execution and disposal, where thousands of innocent lives were brutally taken. In 1971, as Bangladesh fought for its independence, the area of Mirpur became a stronghold for Pakistani forces and their allies. The pump house, with its deep well and secluded location, provided a convenient and concealed place to carry out their heinous acts. Victims, after being detained and often tortured, were brought to Jalladkhana, where they were beheaded and their bodies thrown into the well or buried in mass graves. The horrors of Jalladkhana remained largely hidden until 1999, when the Liberation War Museum initiated an excavation of the site. The discoveries were shocking and heartbreaking: the remains of over 5,000 individuals, including 70 skulls, along with personal belongings such as clothing, jewelry, and prayer beads. These artifacts served as undeniable evidence of the scale and brutality of the genocide. In 2007, the Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial was inaugurated, transforming the site into a place of remembrance and reflection. The memorial preserves the original structure of the pump house, with the well now covered by glass, allowing visitors to peer into the depths where so many lives were lost. Engraved on the glass are the words, “We bow our heads in deep respect to all martyrs,” a poignant tribute to the victims. The memorial complex features a triangular courtyard with gravestone-like pillars bearing the names of numerous killing fields across Bangladesh, a testament to the widespread nature of the genocide. A burnt brick mural, titled “Jibon Obinashwar” (Life is Immortal), depicts the suffering and sacrifice of the martyrs, serving as a powerful visual reminder of the human cost of the war. The Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial is more than just a historical site; it is a place of education, remembrance, and healing. It offers visitors a chance to connect with the past, to understand the pain and suffering endured by the Bengali people, and to honor the memory of those who lost their lives. The site also serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and the need to prevent such atrocities from ever happening again. Visiting Jalladkhana is a deeply moving experience. The atmosphere is somber and reflective, encouraging visitors to contemplate the events that took place here and their significance in the broader context of the Liberation War. The recovered artifacts, displayed alongside the well, provide a chilling glimpse into the lives of the victims and the brutality of their fate. The memorial also plays an important role in the local community. It provides a space for victim families to come together, to share their stories, and to find solace in remembrance. The Liberation War Museum organizes events and programs at the site, engaging the community and promoting awareness of the war and its legacy. Jalladkhana stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of the Bengali people in the face of unimaginable suffering. It is a place where the past is confronted, where memories are honored, and where the lessons of history are learned. It is a place that calls for justice, peace, and a commitment to preventing genocide and human rights abuses in all parts of the world. The Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial is a vital historical site that offers a profound and unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to understand the history of Bangladesh and the human cost of war. It is a place of remembrance, education, and a call for a more just and peaceful world. Today, the Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial is not only a place of somber reflection but also a vibrant community space. It hosts cultural events, musical performances, and theatrical productions, particularly during national holidays. These events serve to engage the community, especially the youth, in remembering and honoring the sacrifices of the past. The site also features a choir, “Children of the Killing Field,” which performs at various events, adding a poignant and hopeful dimension to the memorial. The Liberation War Museum continues to play a crucial role in maintaining and promoting the Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial. The museum conducts extensive outreach programs with young students, collecting eyewitness accounts and building an archive of memory. This ensures that the stories of the Liberation War are passed down to future generations, fostering a sense of national identity and a commitment to preserving the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights. In addition to its historical and educational significance, the Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial also contributes to the local economy. It attracts visitors from all over Bangladesh and the world, providing opportunities for local businesses and promoting tourism in the Mirpur area. The memorial is a source of pride for the community, showcasing their resilience and their commitment to preserving their history and culture. The Jalladkhana Killing Field Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of the struggle for independence and the enduring spirit of the Bengali people. It is a place where the past is honored, the present is confronted, and the future is shaped. It is a place that inspires hope, encourages dialogue, and promotes a commitment to building a better world for all.

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