Pink Palace or Ahsan Manzil

The construction of Ahsan Manzil was completed in 1872 during the reign of Nawab Sir Khwaja Abdul Ghani. The palace was built on the banks of the Buriganga River and was used as the residence of the Nawab family. The palace was named after Nawab Ahsanullah Bahadur, the grandson of Nawab Abdul Ghani, who inherited the property.

The property then came into the hands of Khwaja Alimullah, who was a prominent merchant and leader of Dhaka’s Muslim community. He renovated Rong Mahal and turned it into his residence. He also built a mosque and some other important structures in this area. His son, Khwaja Abdul Ghani, inherited the property after his father’s death in 1854. He named it Ahsan Manzil after his son Khwaja Ahsanullah.

Khwaja Abdul Ghani was one of the most powerful and influential Nawabs of Dhaka. He expanded his estate by acquiring more lands around Ahsan Manzil. He also played an important role in improving the infrastructure, education, health care, trade, and social welfare of Dhaka. He was known for his generosity and patronage of arts and culture.

Khwaja Abdul Ghani built a new building on Ahsan Manzil’s property in 1859 that resembled European architecture with domes and pillars. He called it Rangmahal (Colorful Palace) because he painted it with different colours every year according to his mood. He connected Rangmahal with his old residence by a wooden bridge on the first floor.

In 1888, Ahsan Manzil suffered severe damage from a tornado that destroyed most of its buildings except for Rangmahal. Khwaja Abdul Ghani decided to rebuild Ahsan Manzil with more strength and beauty than before. He hired an English architect named Martin & Co., who designed Ahsan Manzil with an Indo-Saracenic style that blended Islamic and European elements.

The reconstruction work was completed in 1872 under Khwaja Abdul Ghani’s supervision until he died in 1896 at age 87 years old. His son Khwaja Ahsanullah continued his father’s legacy by maintaining Ahsan Manzil as well as supporting various causes such as education, religion, charity, etc. He also added some features, such as electric lights, gas lamps, water pumps, etc . to modernize Ahsan Manzil.

Khwaja Ahsanullah was also known for hosting lavish parties, receptions, ceremonies, etc. at Ahsan Manzil for distinguished guests such as British officials, Indian princes, foreign dignitaries, etc. He also invited famous poets, musicians, artists, scholars, etc. to perform or present at Ahsan Manzil. He died in 1901 at age 53 years old.

After the death of Khwaja Ahsanullah, Ahsan Manzil went through a period of decline due to family disputes over inheritance rights among his sons. The palace gradually lost its glory and became neglected. It was also occupied by squatters who turned it into a slum area.

In 1952, after Bangladesh became part of Pakistan following partition from India, The Government acquired Ahsan Manzil under East Bengal Estate Acquisition Act along with other properties belonging to the Nawab family.

Ahsan Manzil witnessed many historical events, including the Bengal Renaissance and the Partition of India in 1947. During the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, the palace was used as a temporary hospital for the wounded.

In 1985, the Government of Bangladesh declared Ahsan Manzil a national museum. Today, the palace is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the various rooms and exhibits on display, which showcase the lifestyle of the Nawabs and the history of the palace.

One of the most impressive features of Ahsan Manzil is its location on the banks of the Buriganga River. The palace offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a boat ride on the river to get a closer look at the palace and the nearby landmarks, such as the Lalbagh Fort.

In recent years, the Government of Bangladesh has taken steps to preserve and restore Ahsan Manzil. The palace has been renovated to its former glory, and efforts are being made to maintain the historical significance of the site.

In conclusion, Ahsan Manzil is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh. The palace has stood the test of time and has witnessed the many events that have shaped the country over the years. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the country’s pride and identity. A visit to Ahsan Manzil is a must for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture.

Ramadan visiting hours may vary depending on which season Ramadan falls in.

No entry fee is required for disabled persons and children under three years.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has eight member countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).

Dos and don’ts inside the Ahsan Manzil Museum

• Do not touch any display items inside the museum!
• Eating, smoking, photographing, and speaking on mobile phones are strictly prohibited.
• The visitor must keep their entry ticket until their visit is finished.
• A ticket will be valid for the date it was issued and can’t be transferred to another person or any other day.
• The entry ticket sales counter will be closed at least 30 minutes before the museum closes.

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