The Origin and Development of the Pre-Colonial City of Dhaka

In the historical context of the world, the emergence of urban civilizations has often been closely tied to the presence of rivers, and Dhaka is no exception. The city of Dhaka has historically been linked to major rivers such as the Buriganga, Turag, Balunodi, and the Tongi canal, with the Shitalakhya River located nearby. This geographical setting naturally facilitated the expansion of trade and the dynamic movement of people via waterways. The presence of these rivers created a favorable environment for the development of Dhaka. Moreover, the proximity of Dhaka to Sonargaon, which was the administrative capital during the Sultanate period and the rule of the Baro-Bhuiyans, further propelled Dhaka towards urbanization. Remarkably, Dhaka is perhaps the only city in the world to have been designated as a capital city four times throughout its history. Despite facing challenges such as changes in religious and political landscapes, these events introduced new religions and cultures that enriched the city’s mainstream culture.