Search results
People also ask
What is Dhaka famous for?
What makes Dhaka a great city?
Why is Dhaka famous for muslin?
Is Dhaka a city?
Jun 30, 2023 · Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is a bustling city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse population of over 20 million people. It’s known for its delicious street food, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and a thriving arts and music scene.
Dhaka ranks third in South Asia and 39th in the world in terms of GDP. Lying on the Ganges Delta, it is bounded by the Buriganga, Turag, Dhaleshwari and Shitalakshya rivers. Dhaka is also the largest Bengali-speaking city in the world. The area of Dhaka has been inhabited since the first millennium.
- Overview
- History
- The contemporary city
Dhaka, city and capital of Bangladesh. It is located just north of the Buriganga River, a channel of the Dhaleswari River, in the south-central part of the country. Dhaka is Bangladesh’s most populous city and is one of the largest metropolises in South Asia. Pop. (2001) city, 5,333,571; metro. area, 9,672,763; (2011) city, 7,033,075; metro. area, ...
Dhaka’s name is said to refer to the dhak tree, once common in the area, or to Dhakeshwari (“The Hidden Goddess”), whose shrine is located in the western part of the city. Although the city’s history can be traced to the 1st millennium ce, the city did not rise to prominence until the 17th century, when it served as the capital of the Muslim Mughal dynasty of Bengal province (1608–39 and 1660–1704). It was the centre of a flourishing sea trade, attracting English, French, Armenian, Portuguese, and Dutch traders.
Britannica Quiz
Asian Capitals Quiz
Historic buildings of the Muslim period include Lal Bagh fort (1678) and its tomb of Bibi Pari (died 1684), wife of a governor of Bengal; the Bara Katra (great caravansary, a building historically used for sheltering caravans and other travelers; 1664); the Chhota Katra (small caravansary; 1663); and Husayni Dalan (a religious monument of the Shīʿite branch of Islam; 1642). Other 17th-century buildings include the Hindu Dhakeshwari temple and Tejgaon church, built by the Portuguese.
Since its establishment as the capital city, the population, area, and social and economic diversity of Dhaka have grown tremendously. Together with its river port of Narayanganj, 10 miles (16 km) to the south, Dhaka now is one of the most densely industrialized regions in the country. Traditional products include jamdani (fine-quality muslin), embroidery, silk, and jewelry. Among the city’s major industries are jute processing and the manufacture of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, leather goods, ceramics, and electronics products. A strong export-oriented garment industry emerged in the late 20th century.
The area around Dhaka consists of a level plain bounded by the Meghna, Padma (Ganges [Ganga]), and Jamuna (Brahmaputra) rivers. The plain is crossed by a network of streams and rivers, the chief being the Dhaleswari, Buriganga, and Sitalakhya. Important crops are rice, jute, sugarcane, and oilseeds; there is also some cattle farming.
Exclusive academic rate for students! Save 67% on Britannica Premium.
Learn More
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Tourism and Attractions. Dhaka offers visitors a plethora of attractions and cultural experiences. The National Parliament House, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn, is a masterpiece of modern architecture. The Liberation War Museum provides insights into Bangladesh's struggle for independence.
Mar 27, 2024 · Originally known as Jahangir Nagar during the Mughal era in the 17th century, Dhaka blossomed into a center of trade and culture, famed for its fine muslin fabric that was sought after globally. The Mughals, who were known for their architectural prowess and sophisticated lifestyle, left a lasting imprint on the city (including the Lalbagh Fort).
Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, a residence of 16 million population and growing every day. It is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, full of activities – a paradise for street photography. If you like street or portrait photography, Dhaka is your city. You’ll find unlimited subjects here to shoot for several days.
Lalbagh Fort, also known as Fort Aurangabad, is a historic masterpiece nestled in the heart of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Wander through its ancient halls, admire intricate architecture, and soak in the rich heritage.
