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Ruplal House: A Glimpse into Dhaka's Opulent Past

Discover the opulent past of Dhaka at Ruplal House, a 19th-century mansion showcasing a blend of colonial and Bengali architecture, and a glimpse into the lives of wealthy merchants.

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Ruplal House, a 19th-century mansion in Dhaka's Farashganj area, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage. Built beside the Buriganga River, this historical landmark showcases a blend of colonial and traditional Bengali styles, reflecting the affluent lifestyle of its former owners, Ruplal Das and his brother Raghunath Das. Once a venue for lavish balls and cultural events, including a grand ball in honor of the Viceroy of India, Lord Dufferin, the house now offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. Despite its current state of disrepair and encroachment, Ruplal House remains an important symbol of Dhaka's past, with its intricate woodwork, spacious verandas, and ornate design elements still visible. Exploring this heritage building provides a unique opportunity to experience the cultural legacy of Dhaka and appreciate the architectural conservation efforts aimed at preserving its historical narrative. The house's location near other historical sites like Ahsan Manzil and Bahadur Shah Park makes it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in delving into the history and traditions of Old Dhaka.

A brief summary to Ruplal House

Local tips

  • Explore nearby historical sites like Ahsan Manzil and Bahadur Shah Park to enrich your understanding of Old Dhaka's history.
  • Be prepared for crowds and potential traffic congestion in the Farashganj area, especially during peak hours.
  • Respect the property and follow any guidelines provided during your visit to ensure the preservation of this historical site.
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Getting There

  • Rickshaw

    From Sadarghat Ferry Terminal, the most convenient way to reach Ruplal House is by rickshaw. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically around 40-60 BDT, as prices may vary. The ride is short, approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Be prepared for a bustling and crowded environment.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao from anywhere in Dhaka to reach Ruplal House. From Sadarghat, a short trip will cost approximately 80-120 BDT, depending on traffic and demand. Be mindful of potential surge pricing during peak hours.

  • Walking

    If you're already near Sadarghat and prefer to walk, Ruplal House is about a 15-20 minute walk. Head north from the terminal along Ahsanullah Road. Be aware of the busy streets and pedestrian traffic. This option is free, but may not be suitable during hot or rainy weather.

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Discover more about Ruplal House

Ruplal House, a majestic 19th-century mansion, graces the northern bank of the Buriganga River in Dhaka's historic Farashganj district. This architectural marvel, also known as Aratoon House, offers a captivating glimpse into the opulent past of Dhaka and the lives of the wealthy merchants who once resided within its walls. Originally built in 1825 by Armenian businessman Stephen Aratoon, the property was later acquired in 1840 by two prominent merchant brothers, Ruplal Das and Raghunath Das, sons of Swarup Chandra. The Das brothers commissioned the Calcutta-based architectural firm Martin Company to reconstruct the building, transforming it into a grand neo-Indo-Classical residential complex that would appropriately declare their status in the city. The mansion quickly became a hub of social and cultural activity, hosting lavish balls and events that were the talk of the town. Ruplal House gained prominence in 1888 when Ruplal Das hosted a ball in honor of Lord Dufferin, the Viceroy of India. This event solidified the mansion's reputation as one of the most splendid and elegant venues in Dhaka, rivaling even the Ahsan Manzil, the palace of the Nawab family. The architectural style of Ruplal House is a blend of neo-classical and traditional Bengali elements. The mansion is divided into two unequal blocks, each with slightly different styles, but unified by a grand riverfront facade stretching approximately 9144 meters. The ground plan follows an 'E' shape, with three arms extending towards the city side. A grand portico, supported by lofty semi-Corinthian fluted columns and topped with a triangular pediment, exemplifies Renaissance architecture. The mansion comprises three distinct blocks: Ruplal's Block (the western wing), Raghunath's Block (the eastern wing), and a central block linking them. Ruplal's Block is the most imposing, showcasing intricate details and a neo-classical style reminiscent of English architecture. The facade facing the entrance court lacks arches, and the capitals appear more Indianized. Raghunath's Block, while similar in style, exhibits less refined workmanship. The central block harmonizes with the other two, creating a unified appearance along the riverfront. Inside, Ruplal House boasts over fifty rooms of varying sizes, including a grand central hall on the upper floor of the western wing. This hall served as an elegantly decorated dance hall with a wooden floor. Broad verandahs run along the north and south sides of the blocks, supported by round semi-Corinthian columns or rectangular brick pillars with segmented or trefoil arches. After the partition of India in 1947, the Das family left Dhaka for Kolkata. In 1962, Siddick Jamall acquired the house through a formal deed of exchange. Over time, the mansion fell into disrepair and was encroached upon by spice and vegetable vendors and unauthorized squatters. Today, Ruplal House stands as a protected heritage site, recognized by the Department of Archaeology. However, it faces numerous challenges, including neglect, encroachment, and a lack of maintenance. Despite these challenges, the mansion retains its historical and architectural significance, offering visitors a glimpse into Dhaka's rich cultural heritage. Visiting Ruplal House provides a unique opportunity to explore the history and traditions of Old Dhaka. The mansion's location near other historical sites, such as Ahsan Manzil, Bahadur Shah Park, and the Armenian Church, makes it a convenient stop for those interested in delving into the city's past. While the mansion is not always easily accessible to tourists due to ongoing disputes and encroachments, efforts are underway to restore and revitalize the area. The Dhaka South City Corporation has expressed interest in including Ruplal House in its heritage restoration projects, aiming to bring back the lost glory of this iconic landmark. As you wander through the dilapidated halls and courtyards of Ruplal House, imagine the lavish balls and cultural events that once took place within its walls. Picture the wealthy merchants and dignitaries who graced its rooms, and appreciate the architectural details that reflect a blend of European and Bengali styles. Despite its current state, Ruplal House remains a powerful symbol of Dhaka's past, a reminder of the city's rich cultural heritage and the importance of preserving its historical landmarks. Ruplal House is more than just a building; it is a living testament to the history, culture, and architectural heritage of Dhaka. Its story reflects the rise and fall of wealthy merchant families, the impact of colonial rule, and the challenges of preserving historical landmarks in a rapidly changing urban environment. By visiting Ruplal House, you can connect with the past, appreciate the present, and contribute to the preservation of Dhaka's rich cultural legacy for future generations. Exploring Ruplal House offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of a bygone era. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Ruplal House is sure to leave a lasting impression. While visiting Ruplal House, take the time to explore the surrounding area of Old Dhaka. Wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, visit the local markets, and sample the traditional cuisine. Discover the hidden gems and cultural treasures that make Old Dhaka such a unique and fascinating destination. Ruplal House stands as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. By supporting restoration efforts and promoting awareness of historical landmarks, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to learn from the past and appreciate the rich cultural legacy of Dhaka.

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