The Great Shahi Eidgah
Dhanmondi Shahi Eidgah' located at Dhanmondi 6/A, is one of the most ancient archaeological sites in Dhaka city. This magnificent Eidgah is also known as 'Mughal Eidgah, as it is a unique Mughal landmark. According to the Persian inscription found in the central prayer- niche of this historically important Eidgah, it was built in 1640 AD.
As a matter of fact, conservationist architect Abu Sayeed M Ahmed once wrote, "This Eidgah is the oldest surviving Mughal monument in Dhaka city. There is no second one with the architectural forms and features similar to it." (Source: A Daily Star report that was published on January 29, 2009).
The Persian inscription also mentions that the Eidgah was built upon orders from Prince Shah Shuja, the second son of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. Eventually, Diwan Mir Abul Qa'asim built the Eidgah.
According to the history, during Mughal period, a river branch flowed beside the Eidgah and it connected the river near Saat Masjid. The Mughal Subehdars and Diwans, who lived in this area, used to come to the Eidgah for Eid prayers.
From the period of Shuja till today, this Eidgah is used twice a year for the Eid congregations.
The Eidgah stands, still quite impressively, on nearly 4 Bighas of land (1acre), amongst an abundance of greenery. The inner environment of the structure, surrounded by the four walls creates an eye-catching environment for the people visiting here.
Also, the semi-octagonal multi-cusped central prayer niche, which is known as a Mihrab, represents an exceptional architectural style of the Mughal Dynasty. The surface of the four walls is plastered with an elegant mural decoration. In prior times, the red coloured wall and the elegant masonry on the west was a prominent scene in West Dhanmondi. It could be sighted from far away until the early 50s.
Nearly a hundred years ago, a small mosque was built close to the Eidgah. But later on, it was demolished and recently, a new six-storied mosque has replaced it. According to the committee of the mosque, the popularity of the Eidgah prompted the authorities concerned to erect a new and large mosque there, so that all the people visiting here can say their prayers.
But, it is said by many that nothing can be more unfortunate than to demolish an ancient mosque, with around a hundred years of history.
In 1981, the Department of Archaeology declared the Eidgah, as one of the listed archaeological sites. But, it is really a matter of grief that due to massive urbanisation over the past 60 years, there was no deliberate plan taken by the authorities to protect this old heritage site.
The construction of the new mosque has weakened the old Eidgah's base, as well as lessened its archaeological and aesthetical importance. Besides, a horrible odour comes out from the western part of the boundary wall, where garbage carts of the City Corporation are placed every afternoon.
Ensuring proper maintenance of the historically significant Dhanmondi Eidgah will preserve this precious site. Otherwise, it will be difficult to protect the structure from destruction. And it is not only a request now; rather it's more of a dire need.
Photos: Prabir Das