The Aarong flagship outlet in Dhanmondi is more than just a retail store; it is a multi-story experience that celebrates Bangladeshi heritage and craftsmanship. Since its opening, it has quickly become a notable destination for both locals and tourists.
It is located on Road 2, the Dhanmondi outlet is an impressive, eight-story building that is often described as the world's largest craft store. The store's interior is thoughtfully designed with a blend of traditional artistry and modern aesthetics. Key features that stand out include a towering, four-story Nakshi Kantha installation, a unique clay pottery wall, and a striking copper and glass chandelier that casts a warm glow across the space. These installations are not just decor; they serve as a testament to the brand's mission of preserving and promoting local art. The layout is spacious and well-organized, making it easy to browse the extensive collections. Each floor is dedicated to different product categories, from men's and women's fashion to kids' wear, home decor, and jewelry. The store also features dedicated sections for its popular sub-brands, such as TAAGA, TAAGA Man, and Herstory.
Aarong is renowned for its high-quality, handcrafted products. The Dhanmondi outlet offers a comprehensive selection that reflects this reputation. The collections are diverse, ranging from traditional sarees and shalwar kameez to contemporary clothing and accessories. Customers consistently praise the unique designs and the quality of the craftsmanship.
However, a common point of feedback is the pricing. While the quality and ethical sourcing of the products justify the cost, many customers find the prices to be on the higher side compared to other local brands. It's a trade-off that many are willing to accept for the quality, unique designs, and the brand's commitment to empowering local artisans.
The overall ambiance of the store is inviting and premium. The staff is generally described as courteous and helpful, which enhances the shopping journey. For families, the store includes a thoughtful touch with a forest-themed children's play area, allowing parents to shop with ease. Additionally, there is a dedicated nursing room, making it a comfortable destination for parents with infants. The store also features a restaurant, Orange Parrot, on the seventh floor. This dining space offers Bangladeshi fusion cuisine with scenic views of the Dhanmondi area, providing a complete...
Read moreAarong is a prominent Bangladeshi lifestyle retail chain and a flagship social enterprise of BRAC, the world's largest non-governmental development organization. Established in 1978, the name "Aarong" translates to "village fair" in Bengali, reflecting its mission to bring traditional Bangladeshi crafts to urban markets while empowering rural artisans. 🌿 Mission & Social Impact
Aarong was founded to provide sustainable livelihoods for rural artisans, particularly women. Through the Ayesha Abed Foundation (AAF), Aarong supports over 65,000 artisans across Bangladesh, offering them fair wages, job security, and access to various welfare programs, including healthcare, childcare, legal aid, and retirement benefits.
The enterprise plays a significant role in preserving and revitalizing traditional Bangladeshi crafts such as Nakshi Kantha, Jamdani, and Muslin, ensuring these art forms continue to thrive in contemporary markets.
🛍️ Products & Retail Presence
Aarong offers a diverse range of handcrafted products, including:
Traditional and contemporary clothing for men, women, and children
Jewelry and accessories
Home décor items
Leather goods and footwear
Handmade crafts and gifts As of 2025, Aarong operates 29 retail outlets across major cities in Bangladesh, including Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Narayanganj, Khulna, and Comilla. The brand also maintains an online store, facilitating both domestic and international orders. 🌍 Global Outreach & Ethical Practices Since 1986, Aarong has been exporting its products to over 15 countries, offering items like apparel, home décor, and fashion accessories. As a member of the World Fair Trade Organization, Aarong ensures ethical sourcing and compliance with both local and international labor laws. Regular social audits are conducted to maintain high standards in working conditions, environmental management, and employee welfare. 🧵 Legacy & Recognition
Over the past four decades, Aarong has become synonymous with quality and ethical craftsmanship in Bangladesh. By blending traditional artistry with modern design, it has not only created a unique market for Bangladeshi handicrafts but also significantly contributed to the country's artisan economy.
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Read moreAarong Dhanmondi Flagship Outlet – A Cultural Shopping Experience
The Aarong Dhanmondi Flagship Outlet is not just a store—it’s a journey into the heart of Bangladeshi heritage. Located in one of Dhaka’s busiest and most vibrant neighborhoods, this newly opened outlet spans eight impressive floors and over 60,000 square feet, making it the largest craft retail space in the world. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted with rich visuals: a towering Nakshi Kantha installation, traditional clay pottery walls, and a stunning copper-and-glass chandelier called “Alchemy” that symbolizes the transformation of local craftsmanship into global art.
Inside, the store houses Aarong’s full collection, including popular sub-brands like Taaga, Taaga Man, Herstory, and Aarong Earth. Every section is carefully designed and beautifully arranged, offering fashion, home décor, children’s clothing, and accessories—all inspired by traditional Bangladeshi motifs. One standout feature is the forest-themed children’s playpen, which makes shopping more enjoyable for families. There is also a private nursing room, adding a thoughtful touch for parents with infants.
A rooftop restaurant, “Orange Parrot,” is also part of the outlet, promising a blend of Bangladeshi fusion cuisine and a scenic view of Dhanmondi—though it’s still in the process of opening.
Despite its many positives, there are some drawbacks. The store can get extremely crowded during weekends or festival seasons, which might take away from the overall experience. Pricing is also a common concern—many feel the products are on the higher end, especially when compared to local alternatives offering similar quality.
Still, the Aarong Dhanmondi outlet stands as a symbol of how tradition can meet modern design. It’s a celebration of Bangladeshi craftsmanship, culture, and creativity—all under one beautifully curated roof. Whether you’re shopping, exploring, or simply admiring the artistry, this store offers more than just products—it...
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