NORTH SOUTH UNIVERSITY

SPRING 2023
Course: His101(Bangladesh Culture and Heritage)
Section:02 Group:04

Final Assignment
Lalbagh Fort an incomplete Mughal Monument

Submitted to:Prof. Sharif Uddin Ahmed (SFN)

Submitted by:
Name ID
Rownak Rakin 2132552630
Nilima Akter Nodi 2011413030
Labiba Mobashira Raiya 2311353020
Asiqur Rahman Joy 2111465630
Tanjima Chowdhury Promi 2111798630
Nadia Alek Mim 2011909615
Suprova Tasneem Hossain 2112283630

Date of submission:17th May,2023

Acknowledgement

We feel the need to show our thankfulness to Almighty Allah for providing us with the ability
and tolerance to work diligently. We also like to honor our great professor, Dr. Sharifuddin

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Ahmed, from whom we got to learn a lot. We are grateful to those persons without whom we
would not have been able to complete this report's overview. We did manage to beat some
genuine issues when planning, and we wanted to make the most of every minute we had on this
report. Last but not least, we would like to express our sincere gratitude and responsibility to the
North South University experts for their kind cooperation.
Special Thanks to,

Dr. Sharifuddin Ahmed (SFN)

Professor, Department of History and Philosophy.
North South University, Dhaka.

Table of contents
1.Introduction………………………………………………………………………………….2,3
2.History of Lalbagh Fort………………………………………………………………………3,4
3. Present state and structure of the Fort………………………………………………………4-10
4.Present policy……………………………………………………………………………….10
5.Tourist impression and local’s behavior……………………………………………………10,11
6.Findings…………………………………………………………………………………….11,12
7.Ideas and Future plans……………………………………………………………………12,13
8.Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………. 14
References……………………………………………………………………………………14,15

1.Introduction

Lalbagh Fort is an incomplete Mughal fort complex in the southwestern part of Dhaka city in
Bangladesh. It was built in the 17th century by Muhammad Azam Shah, the third son of the
Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The fort was never completed, but it remains an important
historical landmark in Bangladesh.
The fort Is located on the banks of the Buriganga River. It is surrounded by a high wall with
bastions at regular intervals. The main entrance to the fort is through the Lalbagh Gate. Inside the
fort, there are several buildings, including a mosque, a hammam (bathhouse), and a tomb.
The mosque is the largest building in the fort. It is a three-domed mosque with a central
courtyard. The hammam is located next to the mosque. It is a two-story building with a central
pool. The tomb Is located in the northeastern corner of the fort. It is the tomb of Pari Bibi, a
daughter of the Mughal nobleman Sahista Khan.
Lalbagh Fort is a popular tourist destination in Bangladesh. It is a reminder of the Mughal era,
when Dhaka was the capital of Bengal. The fort is also a symbol of the cultural heritage of
Bangladesh.

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 2. History of Lalbagh Fort and its Uses

Lalbagh Fort is a magnificent Mughal monument in Bangladesh that remained incomplete.

Originally designed as a riverside fort-palace, construction began in 1678, during the Viceroyalty
of Bengal under Prince Azam Shah, the third son of the last great Mughal Aurangzeb Alamgir.
Muhammad Azam Shah stayed in Bengal for 15 months. He named the fort under construction
Qila Aurangabad after his father. The fort remained incomplete when he was summoned by his
father in Delhi to attend his father's illness and to quell the Maratha rebellion. After that he could
not return to complete the project. At this time the construction of the fort stopped after the
construction of a mosque and a court hall.

Figure 2.1: Present picture of Lalbagh Fort

The construction of the fort was then taken up with renewed vigor by the next provincial Mughal
Subahdar or governor Nawab Sahista Khan during the second term of his viceroyalty (1680-
1688) in Bengal. He did not complete the construction of the fort either. In 1684, Shasta Khan's
daughter Iran Dukht Pari Bibi died in the fort, which led to the fort being considered as an
unlucky place. Sahista Khan left Dhaka soon after, and the fort was left incomplete and only one-
third of the original plan was executed. Later, the fort was used as a residence for the Governor
of Dhaka. The fort lost popularity after Sahista Khan left Dhaka. The main reason was the
shifting of the capital city from Dhaka to Murshidabad. The fort was abandoned towards the end
of the Mughal dynasty. In 1844, the area became Lalbagh instead of Aurangabad and the fort
became Lalbagh Fort.
After some time, the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb donated the fort to Sahista Khan in memory of
his daughter Pari Bibi. Sahista Khan's successors earned income by leasing the fort from the
government after his death. After 1853 Lalbagh Fort replaced the camp at Purana Paltan.

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 Figure 2.2: Picture of abandoned fort in 1814
By: Charles D’Oyly

Lalbagh Fort has served various purposes throughout its history. During the British era, the fort
was used as a military base and a storehouse of ammunition and weapons. In 1844, the fort was
damaged by an earthquake, which partially collapsed the fort.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the fortress was partially restored and opened to the public.
Today, Lalbagh Fort is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Bangladesh's rich cultural
heritage. Inside the fort is a museum displaying artifacts and exhibits from the Mughal period,
including weapons, paintings and pottery.

3.Pressent state and the Structure of Lalbagh Fort

The fortification is located adjacent to the Buriganga River and spans an estimated landmass of
18 acres. The primary access point to the fort is situated on the southern aspect, granting ingress
to a capacious unobstructed quadrangle spanning approximately 300 feet in both length and
width. The courtyard is encompassed by elevated walls and bastions that measure approximately

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30 feet in height.

Figure 3.1: The Diwan-I-Aam

It is a two-storied structure situated at the northern end of the courtyard, is a well-known feature
of the fort. The edifice in question was initially designed to serve as the assembly hall for the
Mughal governor of Bengal. Notably, it boasts a spacious veranda that affords a panoramic view
of the central courtyard. The ground level of the edifice is accessible and features several curved
apertures that provide ingress to the central yard. Access to the upper level is gained via a
staircase, and a variety of rooms were designated for official functions.

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 Figure 3.2: Tomb of Pari Bibi

Located to the eastern side of the Diwan-I-Aam, lies the Mausoleum of Pari Bibi, a diminutive
domed edifice that is purported to have been erected in commemoration of a distinguished
Mughal lady of the same name. The architectural configuration comprises a quadrilateral
foundation and a hemispheric apex, embellished with elaborate engravings and floral patterns.

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 Figure 3.3: Hammam Khana

Located towards the western side of the Diwan-I-Aam is the Hammam Khana, a tripartite
bathing complex. The initial chamber was designated for disrobing, the subsequent chamber was
allocated for ablution, and the final chamber was designated for the process of drying oneself.
The edifice comprises several diminutive apertures that serve the purpose of facilitating air
circulation and admitting daylight.

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 Figure 3.4: Lalbagh Fort Mosque

The Mosque, situated at the southern extremity of the courtyard, is a refined example of Mughal
architectural style, despite its modest size. The architectural design of the mosque is
characterized by a rectangular shape, which is upheld by four sturdy pillars that are octagonal in
shape. The mosque features a tripartite roof structure comprising three domes, and a mihrab
embellished with ornate floral patterns and calligraphic inscriptions.

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 Figure 3.5: The secret Tunnels of the fort

The Lalbagh Fort secret tunnel intrigues locals and tourists. The tunnel adds mystery to this
already intriguing fort. Some traditions say the tunnel was used for covert warfare operations,
while others say the Mughal prince escaped through it.
History says Mughal Subahdar (Governor) Muhammad Azam Shah, son of Emperor Aurangzeb,
began building Lalbagh Fort in 1678. Azam Shah's cherished daughter, Iran Dukht Pari Bibi,
died prematurely, leaving the fort unfinished and the secret tunnel hidden.
The secret tunnel is claimed to be a maze of interconnecting passages going to various fort areas.
It may connect the Diwan-I-Aam, Pari Bibi's mausoleum, and other sites beneath the main
fortress. The tunnel's complete extent is unknown due to a lack of evidence and exploration.
The subterranean tunnel has fascinated historians, archaeologists, and curious visitors. It lends
mystery to the fort and showcases Mughal architecture. Visitors can admire the fort's
architecture, visit Pari Bibi's mausoleum, and see other historic sites, but they cannot enter the
tunnel. The underground tunnel reminds us of Lalbagh Fort's many hidden treasures.

In addition to its primary fortification, the site encompasses several supplementary edifices, such
as the Audience Hall, the Two-Storied Building, and the South Gate. All of these edifices are

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built in the Mughal architectural genre and are embellished with elaborate engravings and
ornamental patterns. The Lalbagh Fort exemplifies the Mughal style of architecture and design,
and it persists as a significant historical and cultural monument within the urban landscape of
Dhaka, Bangladesh.

4. Present policy of Lalbagh Fort

Lalbagh Fort is a historical site in the old section of Dhaka, Bangladesh's capital city. The fort
was erected during the Mughal Empire in the 17th century and is today a renowned tourist
attraction.

Because Lalbagh Fort is a protected monument under the Department of Archaeology, the
government has put policies in place to maintain its historical and cultural significance. Among
these policies are:

Visitors are not permitted to bring food, beverages, or pets into the fort.
Smoking and trash are strictly prohibited on fort grounds.
Visitors are required to follow the dress code; shorts, sleeveless shirts, and exposing attire are not
permitted inside the fort.
Commercial photography and filming are permitted, but must be approved in advance by the
Department of Archaeology.
Visitors must pay admission tickets and adhere to the fort's opening and closing hours.
In addition, the Department of Archaeology has undertaken many repair and conservation
projects to ensure the fort's structural stability. These principles aim to maintain Lalbagh Fort's
historical and cultural significance while also providing visitors with an entertaining and
educational experience.

5.Tourist impression and locals’ behavior towards the monument

The Lalbagh Fort is a historical site located in Dhaka city, and a popular tourist destination.
Tourists who visit the Lalbagh Fort often have a positive impression of the site, as it is a
beautiful and well-preserved example of Mughal architecture.
Many tourists appreciate the history and cultural significance of the fort and enjoy learning about
its past through guided tours or by exploring the site on their own. They may also take photos
and videos of the fort to share with friends and family or to remember their visit. As for the
locals' behavior towards the Lalbagh Fort, it may vary depending on their individual attitudes
towards the site and tourism in general.
Some locals may take pride in the fort and view it as an important part of their heritage and
identity, while others may feel indifferent or even resentful towards the influx of tourists and the
impact it has on the surrounding area.

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Nevertheless, locals involved in the tourism industry, such as tour guides or souvenir vendors,
may actively seek out tourists and engage with them in order to make a living. They may offer
their services or goods and engage in friendly conversation with tourists, sharing their knowledge
about the fort and the local area
Overall, while the opinions and behaviors of both tourists and locals towards the Lalbagh Fort
may vary, the site remains an important cultural landmark in Bangladesh and a significant
destination for visitors from around the world.

6.Findings about Lalbagh Fort

In this section, we'll talk about. Lalbagh Fort’s entry requirements, scheduling, and so on.
Findings of Lalbagh Fort are given below:

• Ticket Price or Entry Fees:

The cost of. Lalbagh Fort’s ticket price differs particularly depending on demographic factors
like age, sex, nation, and nationality. For Local Tourists: 20 Tk, for SAARC Country Tourists:
100 Tk, and for Other Foreigners: 200 Tk. People of all social classes can visit because the entry
charge to Lalbagh Fort is quite low for the locals.

Figure 6.1: Map of the fort

• Address of The Lalbagh Fort:

Lalbagh Fort Road, Lalbagh, Dhaka 1211, Bangladesh.

• Transport:
Anyone can easily go to this historical Lalbagh Fort, using local transportation options like
rickshaws, CNG vehicles, bike cars, taxi and other public transportation.

• Accommodation and feeding:

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People do not have to worry about meals if they are in the old Dhaka where the historic site is
near Lalbagh Fort’s area since there are many famous hotels and restaurants where you can enjoy
numerous modern and traditional foods anyone can ever have. Anyone can stay in one of the
many hotels in Dhaka. Both are affordable and practical.

• Visiting Hour of Lalbagh Fort:

Lalbagh Fort Opening Time:

The opening time of Lalbagh Fort changes twice every year in summer and winter. It opens and
closes one hour early during winter. Lalbagh Fort off day, however, remains the same throughout
the year.

▪ Lalbagh Fort opening time during Summer (April - September)

• Tuesday - Saturday: 10.00 AM - 01.00 PM, 01.30 PM - 06.00 PM
• Friday: 10.00 AM - 12.30 PM, 02.30 PM - 06.00 PM
• Monday: 02.30 PM - 06.00 PM
▪ Lalbagh Fort opening time during Winter (October - March):
• Tuesday - Saturday: 09.00 AM - 01.00 PM, 01.30 PM - 05.00 PM
• Friday: 09.00 AM - 12.30 PM, 02.00 PM - 05.00 PM
• Monday: 01.30 PM - 05.00 PM
Lalbagh Fort Off day:
Lalbagh Fort will remain closed on Sundays throughout the year.

Lalbagh Fort opening time during the Govt. Holidays:

Lalbagh Fort will remain closed during any govt. holiday.

Lalbagh Fort opening time during Ramadan:

Lalbagh Fort will be closed at 04.00 PM during the holy month of Ramadan.

Lalbagh Fort opening time during Eid Holidays:

Lalbagh Fort will remain closed for visitors during the Eid day and the previous day of the Eid. It
will remain open as usual from the next day of the Eid day.

7.Ideas and future plans about the Lalbagh fort

The Lalbagh Fort Monument is an important historical landmark in Bangladesh and has the
potential to become a major tourist attraction. In the modern digital era, tourists can focus more
than ever on a specific place. Marketing ideas and tools as well as the use of social media and
other promotional materials help us promote Lalbagh Fort among tourists.
Here are some ideas and plans for the preservation of the monument to make the place more
attractive to tourists from different countries to come and visit, which can help our economy.

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Develop a comprehensive Restoration and preservation plan: One of the first priorities of
Lalbagh Fort should be restoration and preservation of the historical structure including mosque,
tomb, hammam and palace. The architects, engineers and archeological experts’ collaboration to
the repair and implementing plan to maintain and restore the side development would help.
The fort can also be made into a cultural center showcasing the rich history and heritage of
Bangladesh. This may include organizing exhibitions, concerts and other events showcasing the
country's art, music and literature.

Create an immersive visitor experience: To attract a large number of visitors, a website must
provide an immersive visitor experience that is informative and engaging. This may include
guided tours, interactive exhibits to provide deeper knowledge of the monument's history and
understanding of the monument's history and significance.

Improved infrastructure: To make the site more accessible to visitors, improvements to

infrastructure are needed including better roads, parking facilities, and public transportation
options.

Offering diverse experience: To appeal to a wider audience, the site needs to offer a variety of
experiences that cater to different interests and age groups. These can include hands-on
workshops, outings and cultural events that showcase local traditions and cultural customs.

Partnerships: The government can work with private organizations and tourist companies to
promote Lalbagh Fort as a destination. Partnerships could involve developing tour packages
featuring the fort, or working with tour operators to promote the site to international tourists.
Also, partnership with the local communities can ensure stability of site, hiring local staff will be
helpful for maintenance and guidance of the fort.

Invest in marketing and promotion: Investing in marketing and promotion is essential to

attract a large number of tourists from all over the world. This may include working with travel
agencies, creating social media campaigns, and developing collateral that highlights the unique
features and appeal of the site.

8.Conclusion

The Lalbagh Fort was constructed to serve as the governor of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa's formal
home during the Mughal era. The complex houses a mosque, Pari Bibi's tomb, and the residence
of the Mughal governor. Lawns, water features, and water canals cover it. Previously, the two

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south gates' magnificent arches. As a result, the legendary stories about the fort began. Prince
Azam was summoned back to his father before the building was ready to help in the fight against
the Marathas. Archaeologists discovered that the main fort walls continued east under Sahista
Khan Road. They felt that only half of what Prince Azam Khan had originally intended was
represented by the present-day Qila region. The gate close to Lalbagh Shahi Masjid in the
southeast corner of the fort serves as the Central Gate in the fort and is suitable for the
requirements. The Bangladeshi Archaeological Department is currently responsible for
maintaining this historical site. In Dhaka, this has grown to be a popular tourist destination.
Lalbagh Fort receives about three million visitors each year, the majority of them are locals.
Lalbagh Fort has always been of utmost importance, both during the Mughal era and currently.
Not only is this location significant, but it is also incredibly beautiful. Every day a different
mood is created in this tourist location. Therefore, it is not only our obligation but also our
responsibility to uphold its value as necessary. And the government's engagement is crucial for
safeguarding historical treasures like Lalbagh Fort.

Reference
The Daily Star. (2019, April 28). The Bastion: The Lalbagh Fort. Retrieved from
https://www.thedailystar.net/in-focus/news/the-bastion-the-lalbagh-fort-1736110

Beautiful Bangladesh. (n.d.). Lalbagh Fort. Retrieved from

https://beautifulbangladesh.gov.bd/district-destination/dhaka/heritage/4

Banglapedia. (n.d.). Lalbagh Fort. In Banglapedia: The National Encyclopedia of Bangladesh.

Retrieved May 15, 2023, from https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Lalbagh_Fort

Bashar, R. (2021, March 23). Restoring the Lalbagh Hammam: Seeing it as it was. The Business
Standard. https://www.tbsnews.net/features/habitat/restoring-lalbagh-hammam-seeing-it-it-
was-610670

City Traveler BD. (2021). Lalbagh Fort. Retrieved from https://www.citytravelerbd.com/lalbagh-

fort/#:~:text=Lalbagh%20Fort%20Ticket%20Price%20 or,Other%20Foreigners%3A
%20200%20Tk

(n.d.). The Archeological heritage of Bangladesh. Asiatic Society of Bangladesh.

(n.d.). Lalbagh Fort. nijhoom.com. Retrieved from https://nijhoom.com/lalbagh-fort/

https://books.google.com/books?id=5CUlDwAAQBAJ&dq
=aurangzeb+bengal+paradise+of+nati ons&pg=PA263

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nijhoom.com. (n.d.). Retrieved from lalbagh-fort: https://nijhoom.com/lalbagh-fort/

The Archeological heritage of Bangladesh. Asiatic Society of Bangladesh. . (2011).

(n.d.). Aurangzeb Bengal Paradise of Nations. In India and the Islamic Heartlands: An
Eighteenth-Century World of Circulation and Exchange (pp. 263-297). University of California
Press. doi: 10.1525/luminos.39.10. Retrieved from https://books.google.com/books?
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