Murapara Jamidar Bari — Attraction in Dhaka Division

Murapara Jamidar Bari, also known as Murapara Rajbari or Matherghat Zamindar Bari, is a magnificent historical zamindar house located in Rupganj Upazila of Narayanganj District, Bangladesh. It's a significant archaeological monument and a testament to the opulent lifestyle of the zamindars during the colonial era. Here's a breakdown of what makes it noteworthy: History and Establishment: The palace was primarily established by Babu Ramratan Banerjee in 1889. His descendants, including Pratap Chandra Banerjee, Vijay Chandra Banerjee, and later Jagadish Chandra Banerjee and Ashutosh, contributed to its renovation and expansion over the years. Architecture: It's a grand, two-storied structure built on approximately 62 bighas (around 17.5 acres) of land. The architecture is a mix of Indo-Saracenic Revival and Bengali styles, featuring intricate carvings, semicircular arches, and a 10-foot wide verandah. It reportedly has 95 elaborate rooms, a temple with a 30-foot high spire, a storehouse, kachari house, guesthouse, meeting room, stables, and a spectacular dance hall. Two large ponds are located in front and back of the main building. Post-Zamindari Era: After the partition of India in 1947, the zamindar family moved to Calcutta, leaving the house abandoned. In 1948, the Government of Pakistan used it as a juvenile correctional center and hospital. Later, around 1966, it housed a school-college. In 1986, the Bangladesh Directorate of Archaeology listed Murapara Zamindar Bari as an archaeological site. Current Use: Currently, a college known as Govt. Murapara College has been established within the premises. While some parts might show signs of neglect, it remains a popular spot for visitors interested in history and architecture. Location: Murapara Jamidar Bari is situated about 25 km southeast of Dhaka, making it a feasible day trip destination. It's easily accessible by road and offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and historical heritage. It's a place that offers a fascinating insight into the zamindari system and the architectural grandeur of a bygone era...

Murapara Rajbari, also known as Murapara Zamindar Palace, is a historic palace located in Murapara village, Rupganj Upazila of Narayanganj District, Bangladesh. Situated approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Dhaka, it stands as a testament to the country's rich architectural heritage.

Historical Background

The palace was established by Ramratan Banerjee, who served as a treasurer under the Natore estate during the British colonial period. Construction of the palace began in 1889. Over the years, the palace has witnessed significant events, including serving as a refuge during the 1971 Liberation War. Post-independence, it was repurposed as an educational institution and now houses the Murapara Degree College.

Architectural Features

The two-story palace showcases a blend of Indo-Saracenic Revival and Bengali architectural styles. Its grand frontage spans approximately 200 feet, featuring semicircular arches and a 10-foot-wide verandah that runs along both levels, providing access to the rooms. The expansive grounds encompass two large ponds—one at the front and another at the back of the palace—adding to its scenic beauty. Additionally, there are two old temples located on the western side of the premises, known as the Durga and Shiva temples.

Visiting Information

For those interested in exploring Murapara Rajbari, it is accessible via the Dhaka-Chittagong highway. Travelers can reach the palace by taking the Rupganj road from the highway and then following directions to Murapara College, a well-known landmark in the area. The palace is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

A visit to Murapara Rajbari offers a glimpse into Bangladesh's zamindari past and architectural splendor, making it a worthwhile destination for history enthusiasts and casual...

Murapara Rajbari is one of the archeological monuments and century-old zamindar house of Bangladesh located in Rupganj upazila of Narayanganj district. At various times this zamindar house was renovated and extended by several zamindars. It is located in the village called Murapara of the upazila. Its distance by road from Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is about 18 km. [1] Locals also call it Matherghat Zamindar Bari. The Murapara palace is situated on 62 bigha land. This zamindar house was built by Babu Ramratan Banerjee who established Murapara zamindari in the area. The palace was later renovated and expanded by some of his descendants. In 1889, the landlord Pratap Chandra Banerjee extended the rear part of this building and started living here with his family.

His son Vijay Chandra Banerjee constructed a building in front of the palace and dug 2 ponds in 1899 AD. In 1909, his two sons, Jagdish Chandra Banerjee and Ashutosh Chandra Banerjee, completed the two-story building of the palace.[2]

After the partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, Jagdish Chandra moved to Calcutta with his family. Since then the house has been abandoned. In 1948, the then government of Pakistan took over the house and started operating a hospital and juvenile correctional center here. School and college activities were conducted here in 1966 AD. After the independence of Bangladesh in 1986, Bangladesh Directorate of Archeology took charge of the house and listed it as an archaeological site. Presently it is known as Government...