Nestled along the banks of the Buriganga River, Dhaka is a city that pulsates with life and history.
As the capital of Bangladesh, it serves as a vibrant epicenter of culture, commerce, and creativity.
From its rich historical heritage to its rapid modernization, Dhaka is a city of contrasts and surprises.
In this article, we delve into some fascinating facts about Dhaka that reveal its unique character, showcasing everything from its impressive architectural wonders and bustling markets to its delicious street food and diverse population.
History of Dhaka
Dhaka’s history dates back to the 7th century CE, with urban settlements emerging in the area.
Initially part of the Sena dynasty’s Bikrampur district, it gained prominence during the Sultanate period as a regional hub.
The city’s significance surged under Mughal rule (1608-1704), when it became the capital of Bengal, known for its muslin trade and vibrant culture.
Following British control in 1765, Dhaka evolved into an administrative center.
After the Liberation War in 1971, it became the capital of independent Bangladesh, continuing to grow as a major economic and cultural hub in South Asia.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about Dhaka;
1. Dhaka is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with over 17 million residents.
2. The city has a history dating back to the 7th century CE, with urban settlements emerging in the area.
3. Dhaka’s official language is Bengali (Bangla), which is related to Sanskrit and belongs to the Indo-Aryan group of languages.
4. Dhaka is known as the City of Mosques due to its Islamic architecture and riverfront on the Buriganga River.
5. The city is home to the world’s largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans, which lies on the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers.
6. Dhaka has earned the moniker “rickshaw capital of the world,” with at least one million bike rickshaws in the city.
7. The city is known for its vibrant rickshaw art, featuring brightly colored designs on the back of the rickshaws.
8. Dhaka is a major hub for the global garment manufacturing industry, making Bangladesh one of the world’s largest exporters of clothing.
9. The city is home to the University of Dhaka, the oldest and largest university in Bangladesh, known for its academic excellence.
10. The Shaheed Minar, a monument dedicated to the language martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement, is located in Dhaka.
11. Dhaka has a bustling river port on the Buriganga River, the Sadarghat River Port, which is one of the busiest inland river ports in the world.
12. The Dhaka Stock Exchange is one of the largest stock exchanges in South Asia and plays a vital role in the country’s economy.
13. Dhaka is a city of contrasts, with modern skyscrapers standing alongside historic neighborhoods.
14. The city hosts various festivals, art exhibitions, music concerts, and theater performances throughout the year to promote local talent and cultural diversity.
15. Dhaka is home to numerous museums and galleries, including the National Museum, Liberation War Museum, and Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts.
16. The city is a melting pot of diverse religions and ethnicities, with Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and people of various other faiths.
17. The National Martyrs’ Memorial, located just outside Dhaka, honors the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
18. Dhaka has a vibrant literary heritage, with renowned authors, poets, and intellectuals emerging from the city.
19. The city is connected to the rest of the country through an extensive network of roads, railways, and waterways.
20. Dhaka is home to the National Parliament House of Bangladesh, also known as Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn.
21. The historic mosques and monuments of the old city, including the Lalbagh Fort and the Sixty Dome Mosque, have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
22. Dhaka is known for its delicious cuisines, with a diverse range of native curries, rice, and other regional foods.
23. The city is a cricket mania, with the national stadium and top cricket celebrities located in Dhaka.
24. Dhaka hosts various festivals and cultural events, such as the Biannual Dhaka Art Summit, the Dhaka Literature Festival, and the annual Ekushey Book Fair.
25. The currency used in Dhaka (Bangladeshi Taka) is extremely weak compared to major currencies like the US Dollar.
26. Dhaka is known for its pure silk fabric, with a variety of options available in shops, including cotton silk and Banarasi silk.
27. The colorful Shankaria Bazaar, also known as the Hindu Street in the Muslim-dominated Dhaka, offers a vibrant view of the country’s art and cultural heritage.
28. Traffic jams are a normal occurrence in Dhaka, with the city being one of the most traffic-congested cities in the world.
29. The Buriganga River, although heavily polluted, plays an important role in the socio-economic life of the people of Dhaka and the whole of Bangladesh.
30. Dhaka is known for its vibrant street life, with bustling markets, street food stalls, and colorful rickshaws.
31. The city is home to the Ahsan Manzil Palace, a beautiful pink palace that served as the official residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka.
32. Dhaka is a major hub for the textile industry, with numerous factories and mills producing garments for export.
33. The city is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as Jamdani sarees, a type of fine muslin fabric with intricate designs.
34. Dhaka is home to the Lalbagh Fort, a 17th-century Mughal fort that houses a mosque, a tomb, and a museum.
35. The city is known for its delicious street food, such as chotpoti, a savory snack made with chickpeas, potatoes, and tamarind chutney.
36. Dhaka is a major center for education in Bangladesh, with numerous colleges and universities located in the city.
37. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a growing number of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Conclusion
Dhaka is a city that embodies the spirit of resilience, diversity, and vibrancy.
With its rich history, cultural heritage, and rapid modernization, it stands as a testament to the dynamic nature of urban life in South Asia.
From its bustling markets and colorful rickshaws to its historic landmarks and thriving arts scene, Dhaka offers a unique blend of tradition and contemporary living.
The city’s challenges, such as congestion and pollution, are met with an equally strong sense of community and innovation among its residents.
As Dhaka continues to evolve, it remains a captivating destination for travelers and a vital hub for culture and commerce in the region.
