Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
Bahadur Shah, previously known as Victoria Park, is located in Laxmibazar of Old Dhaka. Situated in one of the country's most densely populated areas, this park has become a popular spot for locals to exercise, relax, and enjoy their leisure time.
Despite its ordinary appearance, the park holds a significant historical narrative. In the late 18th century, a billiard club called "Antaghar" was run by the Armenians of Dhaka.
The club was named after the locally known billiard ball, "Anta Ball." During the first half of the 19th century, Nawab Khwaja Abdul Ghani, the first Nawab of Dhaka recognized by the British Raj, took the commendable initiative to establish this park.
A significant event occurred on 22nd November 1857 when local sepoys rebelled against the British troops. Eleven defeated freedom fighters were publicly hanged at this place, and their bodies were left hanging for a long time as a warning to the locals.
In 1858, the Commissioner of Dhaka Division made a significant declaration affirming Queen Victoria's acceptance of India's rule in this Maidan, which led to the place being named 'Victoria Park'.
In 1957, on the centenary of the Sepoy Mutiny, the park was renamed Bahadur Shah Park after the Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah II, a key figure in the rebellion.
The park holds grievous and glorious historical significance, and its architectural beauty remains a striking example.
Iron railings enclose the parkpark, with two main gates on the east and west sides.
Upon entering the park through either gate, you will encounter two monuments. The tallest one is situated on the eastern side, in memory of the martyred sepoys. The memorial comprises a rectangular structure supported by four pillars, with a beautiful dome at the top.
The other Khawja Hafijullah obelisk is the monument of Khwaja Hafizullah, the eldest son of the Nawab of Dhaka, Sir Khwaja Ahsanullah, and the likely next Nawab.
To keep his memory alive, on 17th February 1885, the British erected a massive monument made of granite stone brought by ship from Kolkata. However, a star-shaped octagonal fountain in the park was recently demolished during the park's renovation.
The country's most significant launch terminal, large wholesale and retail business establishments, and one of the busiest bus stations are located next to this park.
Since this area has few fields and gardens, this park is used for physical exercise, and people choose this place to spend their leisure time. However, the park needs to be maintained correctly.
It once had numerous exercise machines but now has none. Many people avoid coming here because the park's walking paths are not cleaned regularly.
Due to the lack of proper security measures and administration, drug addicts are often found using drugs here. Recently, there have been cases of death here due to drug consumption.
Moreover, the locals complain that the traditional monuments must be better maintained. Nabila Akter, a Sonargaon University student, said, "The memorial of martyred sepoys has been surrounded by bamboo for a long time, but no visible renovation has been seen. Even the historical obelisk of Khwaja Hafizullah has not been preserved, which allows anyone to damage it."
The park's trees had long been painted white and red to commemorate the martyrdom of sepoy rebel martyrs by hanging. However, they are now faded due to lack of preservation.
There is hope as residents and civil society have begun to come forward to protect this historic park. They have expressed their concerns to the Dhaka South City Corporation, responsible for the park's conservation.
As a result, security guards have recently been appointed. Residents have formed a council named "Bahadur Shah Park Heritage Preservation Sangam Parishad," which regularly presents its demands to the relevant authorities.
Din Mohammad, a council member, addressed the issue of drug consumption in the park and drew the attention of the local police station to prevent it. They also plan to seek the government's cooperation in preserving the historical monuments shortly.