Harinarayan Dighi: A king’s promise and queen’s sacrifice

Nestled in the tranquil village of Mangalpur in Kamalganj upazila of Moulvibazar, the Raja Harinarayan Dighi stands as a testament to the region's rich history and heritage. Nearly 400 years ago, King Harinarayan Roy, seeking to protect his kingdom's farmers from a devastating drought, ordered the construction of a vast pond. However, despite his efforts, the water failed to rise.

It was not until a mysterious dream led the king's queen to pour water into the well at the pond's centre that the water miraculously began to fill. But as the pond swelled with life-giving water, tragedy struck -- the queen sank into the depths and was never seen again.

Today, the pond continues to serve the community while keeping the legend of King Harinarayan and his lost queen alive. This historic site remains a silent witness to the passage of time, drawing visitors from near and far to experience its beauty and hear its story.

Chandramohan Pandit, an elder of Mangalpur village, said that dating back to the late 16th century, this pond was created by King Harinarayan Roy, a ruler known for his devotion to his people. His reign, which spanned much of greater Sylhet, was marked by both a severe drought and a legend that continues to capture the imagination of locals and visitors alike.

Photo: Mintu Deshwara/Star

The history of the pond is steeped in legend. It is believed that during the reign of King Harinarayan Roy, a devastating drought ravaged the kingdom, causing widespread distress. Crops withered, and the people faced a severe food crisis. In an effort to protect his subjects, the king ordered the construction of a massive pond, spreading across 12 bighas (360 acres) of land in front of his royal palace, located in what is now Mangalpur village.

Despite the efforts, the pond failed to fill with water, even after a deep well was dug at its centre. Desperate, King Harinarayan had a dream in which his beloved wife, Queen Bhanumati Roy, was instructed to pour water from an earthen pitcher into the well. Upon following the dream's guidance, the pond miraculously filled with water. However, as the pond swelled with life, tragedy unfolded. Queen Bhanumati, after pouring the water, mysteriously sank into the pond and was never seen again, he added.

The loss of Queen Bhanumati devastated the king, leading to the gradual decline of his kingdom. With his spirit broken, King Harinarayan Roy became indifferent to the affairs of the state and eventually vanished, leaving behind a legacy shrouded in mystery. Over time, the once-flourishing kingdom disappeared, but the Raja Harinarayan Dighi endured, serving as a silent witness to a lost era.

Today, nearly four centuries later, the Raja Harinarayan Dighi remains a symbol of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The pond, which still meets the drinking water needs of the local community, is now a popular tourist attraction in Moulvibazar.

Photo: Mintu Deshwara/Star

Managed by the Kamalganj upazila administration, the pond is a peaceful spot where history and nature intertwine. Every year, thousands of migratory birds visit the pond, adding to its charm during the winter season.

The upazila administration has taken steps to preserve the pond's natural beauty while also developing facilities to accommodate tourists.

Makhan Chandra Sutradhar, the upazila nirbahi officer, said, "The traditional Harinarayan Dighi has been preserved in its original form. We are exploring ways to make this beautiful and historically significant spot even more attractive to both domestic and international tourists."

Ismail Mahmud, a senior journalist of the area, said the Raja Harinarayan Dighi stands as a serene and evocative reminder of a lost kingdom and the enduring spirit of the people who once lived there. It is a place where history, legend, and nature continue to captivate the hearts of those who visit, offering a glimpse into the past while fostering a deep appreciation for the region's cultural heritage.