Rajshahi: A Comprehensive Overview

Rajshahi is a major administrative, educational, cultural, and commercial hub of Bangladesh. Historically famed for its silk production, the region is equally renowned for its delicious mangoes. As the headquarters of the Rajshahi Division, it is home to significant historical, cultural, and natural landmarks. One of Bangladesh’s revered national leaders, AHM Kamaruzzaman, hailed from this district.

Location and Demographics

Located on the north bank of the Padma River near the Bangladesh-India border, Rajshahi city has a population of over 763,952. Including the surrounding towns of Nowata and Katakhali, the greater metropolitan area houses nearly one million residents.

Often described as the cleanest and greenest city in Bangladesh, Rajshahi is part of the ancient region of Pundravardhana. The city traces its roots back to 1634, marked by inscriptions at the mausoleum of the Sufi saint Shah Makhdum (RH). During the 18th century, it attracted Dutch traders, and in 1876, it was recognized as a municipality under British rule. It achieved City Corporation status in 1991.

Origin of the Name

Historically known as Rampur Boalia, the name Rajshahi is believed to originate from the combination of “Raj” (meaning king) and “Shahi” (a Persian term for royal or kingdom). The administrative district was established in 1772 and was historically ruled by maharajas, rajas, and zamindars.

Historical Places and Heritage

Rajshahi is steeped in history and culture, enriched by the legacy of saints like Hazrat Shah Makhdum (RH) and adorned with scenic beauty. It offers a wealth of tourist attractions, including:

Puthia Rajbari
Bagha Mosque
Varendra Research Museum
Padma Garden
Lalon Shah Park
T Badh
Kamaruzzaman Zoo
Silk Institute
Shishu Park

Charkhidirpur: A Village in Distress

One exceptional yet troubling location is Charkhidirpur—a village surrounded by India on three sides and the Padma River on the fourth. The absence of a high school has led to alarming rates of child marriage, especially among girls, while boys often work as cowherds. The village reflects the urgent need for educational and social reforms.

Role in the Liberation War of 1971

Rajshahi played a pivotal role during Bangladesh’s War of Independence. Following the cancellation of the National Assembly session on March 3, 1971, protests erupted across the region. Guided by national leaders, the people of Rajshahi actively participated in the liberation movement.

The Pakistani military committed severe atrocities here, including civilian killings and occupying the Rajshahi University campus as a military base. One of the fiercest battles occurred nearby, where Captain Mohiuddin Jahangir, later honored with the Bir Shreshtha title, sacrificed his life. Several monuments and mass graves across the city stand as solemn testaments to these sacrifices.

Educational Institutions

Known as an educational capital, Rajshahi is home to some of the most prestigious institutions in the country. The city boasts a rich academic heritage, attracting students from all corners of Bangladesh and even abroad. Its universities are renowned for academic excellence and have long upheld the city's reputation in higher education. Emerging centers for medical research and education are also contributing to its growing importance. Respected colleges have played vital roles in shaping the intellectual foundation of generations, while technical institutes contribute significantly by producing skilled professionals in various trades. Collectively, these institutions make Rajshahi a vibrant hub of learning and innovation.

Notable Personalities from Rajshahi

Rajshahi has produced numerous influential figures, including:

AHM Kamaruzzaman – One of Bangladesh’s four national leaders and a prominent figure in the country's liberation history. While a dedicated Wikipedia page for him is not available, you can find information about him in various historical contexts and articles related to Bangladesh's independence movement.
Dr. Mohammad Shamsuzzoha – Martyr and professor at the University of Rajshahi, recognized as the first university teacher martyred in the 1969 mass uprising.
Manzila Pola Uddin, Baroness Uddin – Member of the UK House of Lords and community activist of Bangladeshi descent.
Khoda Box Mridha – Renowned Bangladeshi sports commentator, player, and sports organizer.
Sukhrojjon Samaddar – Information on this individual is limited. Further details may be available in specialized historical records or archives related to Bangladesh's liberation history.
Mir Abdul Qayyum – Bangladeshi psychologist and martyr intellectual who was killed during the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Selina Hossain – Prominent Bangladeshi novelist and former president of the Bangla Academy.

Khaled Mashud (Pilot) – Former Bangladeshi cricketer and captain, known for his role as a wicketkeeper and middle-order batsman.

Why I Feel Proud of Rajshahi

Rajshahi is a place of pride for many reasons:

Educational Excellence: A nationally recognized hub of education.
Cleanliness and Greenery: Often praised as the cleanest and greenest city in Bangladesh.
Historical Significance: Rich in heritage, architecture, and cultural history.
Great Leaders and Heroes: Homeland of many notable personalities and national heroes.
Liberation War Contributions: Played a crucial role in the country’s independence.

Conclusion

Rajshahi is not just a city—it is a symbol of cultural richness, educational prestige, historical importance, and patriotic spirit. Its contributions to the nation, both past and present, make it one of the most distinguished districts in Bangladesh. Truly, Rajshahi is a source of immense pride for its residents and for the country as a whole.