Shahariar Islam Sovon :
Lalbagh Fort, a 17th-century Mughal architectural wonder, is not just a relic of the past, but a living witness to Bangladesh’s layered history of ambition, tragedy, and resilience.
Construction of Lalbagh Fort began in 1678 under the direction of Prince Muhammad Azam, son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, during his brief tenure as the governor of Bengal.
Designed to be a grand citadel rivaling the forts of Agra or Delhi, the fort symbolized Mughal power and vision. However, Azam was recalled to Delhi before the fort was completed, and the task was handed over to Shaista Khan, another Mughal subahdar of Bengal.
The project came to a standstill when Shaista Khan’s beloved daughter, Bibi Pari (Lady Fairy), died within the fort premises. Devastated by her death, Shaista Khan believed the fort was cursed and halted all construction. What remains today is an incomplete yet breathtaking glimpse into what could have been a jewel in the crown of Mughal architecture.
Despite its unfinished state, Lalbagh Fort is an exquisite example of Mughal design—combining Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences. The complex includes three main structures:
The Tomb of Bibi Pari: A poignant and beautifully designed mausoleum clad in black basalt and white marble. The tomb lies in the center of the complex, surrounded by serene gardens and reflective water channels.
Thought to be the governor’s residence, this two-story structure offers an insight into the Mughal court’s administrative sophistication. Its delicate arches and ornate stucco work still impress visitors centuries later.
The Mosque: A classic three-domed Mughal mosque that continues to serve as a place of worship, with its blend of symmetry and spiritual simplicity.
Underground tunnels, rumored to connect the fort to the Buriganga River and other parts of the city, add to Lalbagh’s mystique. Some say they were escape routes; others believe they hold hidden treasures. Most of these tunnels have been sealed off for safety.
Today, Lalbagh Fort is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a symbol of Dhaka’s heritage and resilience. Families stroll through its gardens, students sketch the historic walls, and history enthusiasts marvel at the blend of imperial ambition and human emotion encapsulated in stone.
The fort also serves as a gentle reminder: that even the grandest dreams can be interrupted by personal loss, and history isn’t always about what was completed, but also what was left behind.
