M H Haider

1863 vs 2024: Comparing 2 visuals of a Mughal mosque in Dhaka

Fabeck made a number of artworks depicting Dhaka, such as a beautiful watercolour of Buriganga, which we have featured earlier.

3w ago

Neglected heritage: A historic gate in ruins

You may have visited Ahsan Manzil — or at least know of it — but did you ever encounter this dilapidated gateway? 

1m ago

Pirates, forts, and no crowds: The ultimate history geek’s dream spot

Located in Munshiganj, the 17th century river fort is beyond the hustle and bustle of the more common tourist spots, and gives a rather different experience compared to the grander Mughal edifices that are spread all over the Indian subcontinent.

1m ago

How did Motijheel get its name?

Another etymology that somewhat resonates with the aforementioned one is that Motijheel was the name of a canal or rivulet that flowed in or around the area; then, the label was referred to a particular pond, and eventually, an overall locality adopted the name. 

1m ago

The beautiful gate of Dhaka Christian Cemetery

After all, we are talking about a graveyard that is very old. According to Perween Hasan's chapter in the book "Dhaka Past, Present, Future," the oldest grave in the compound dates back to 1774!

2m ago

Hussaini Dalan and the story of a lost mausoleum

The building has ceased to exist, but the graves are still there, along with a few graves of their family and acquaintances.

2m ago

Which annoying office chat group character are you? Find out here!

Discover the quirky characters in your office chat groups: the Pioneer, Mime Artist, Podcaster, Alien, Ghost, and Boss. From endless GIFs to unwelcome voice notes, identify and laugh at these familiar faces!

2m ago

The former name of DU's Dr Muhammad Shahidullah Hall

When we refer to the very familiar Shahidullah Hall, our minds do not often register the legendary maestro of a man after whom this student residence is named, let alone the fact that it was once referred to as Dacca Hall. 

2m ago
March 21, 2024
March 21, 2024

How did Chawk Bazar's iftar market become so famous?

This hints towards a monopoly Chawk Bazar enjoyed in the olden times. 

March 17, 2024
March 17, 2024

Poneer with tea: An old Dhaka favourite

Poneer-flavoured tea? How about bits or slices of poneer in your tea? The concept may not be all that surprising for many people these days, as just a few years ago various teashops and brands tried to popularise this almost as a novelty.

March 14, 2024
March 14, 2024

Old traditions of Ramadan moon sighting

People used to gather at Ahsan Manzil, Boro Katra, Choto Katra, and Hussaini Dalan to spot the crescent moon.

February 18, 2024
February 18, 2024

Why every child deserves a cousin like Feluda!

Discover the Enduring Legacy of Feluda: Satyajit Ray's beloved detective series continues to enchant audiences, with its charismatic protagonist, Felu, and his youthful sidekick Topshey. Drawing parallels to Sherlock Holmes, Feluda's adventures inspire curiosity and admiration, much like real-life figures such as the author's cousin, Russell. Despite societal misgivings, Russell, like Feluda, nurtured a thirst for knowledge and exploration. Through literature and personal anecdotes, the article celebrates the timeless appeal of childhood heroes, advocating for every child to have their own Feluda-like mentor.

February 15, 2024
February 15, 2024

Dhanmondi's unimaginable past

History, however, is hard to erase. The name itself, historians have argued, is reminiscent of olden times. Many believe Dhanmondi may have a paddy connection — "dhan".

February 8, 2024
February 8, 2024

Old Dhaka's Ruplal House and its Armenian connection

The mansion was once the home of the affluent and influential merchant Ruplal Das and his family, and hence the stories of their wealth and opulence spin around Ruplal House even today.

February 1, 2024
February 1, 2024

Why was Bahadur Shah Park locally called Anta Ghar er Maidan?

Why, though? How did this odd name come about?

January 28, 2024
January 28, 2024

Where did the word ‘nihari’ come from?

The stew is a wholesome meal that combines the best in a bowl – a warm soup, spices, meat and bone marrow make up for an amazing comfort food, especially during winter.

January 25, 2024
January 25, 2024

Dhaka Gate: Old monument, new life

This old image portraying Dhaka Gate has a rustic vibe — with the grass and pathway and the elephants.

January 14, 2024
January 14, 2024

The royal family tree of Shaista Khan

Among all his accomplishments and stories -- the buildings that are attributed to his era, long years of service as a subahdar, the success of keeping rice prices low -- one curious footnote would be his royal lineage.