The Mithapukur Lal Mosque, an architectural masterpiece from the late Mughal era, stands as a testament to the rich history of Bangladesh.
This 224-year-old mosque, located in the Rangpur district, is gradually fading from the urban landscape. Once a symbol of grandeur and a hub of cultural and religious significance, the mosque now faces the threat of erasure due to urbanisation, neglect, and lack of adequate preservation efforts.
Situated 308 kilometers from Dhaka and 24 kilometers south of Rangpur, the Mithapukur Lal Mosque is a unique blend of Mughal architecture and local cultural influences.
The mosque features intricate arches, domes, and terracotta artwork, combined with elements typical of rural architecture.
The mosque’s four towering minarets, ornate floral motifs, and open courtyard are distinct features of its design, making it an exceptional example of regional heritage. However, this historical gem is increasingly overshadowed by the rising modern buildings surrounding it, contributing to its physical and cultural decline.
Despite its status as a heritage site listed by the Department of Archaeology, the mosque has suffered from years of neglect. The surrounding area is covered in thick layers of moss.
The once-beautiful exterior and intricate interior designs are now hidden beneath the accumulation of dirt and neglect. Local residents and experts alike express their concern about the deteriorating state of this cultural treasure.
Md Sohag Ali, an assistant professor of History and Archaeology at Begum Rokeya University and a researcher on ancient structures in the Rangpur region, emphasised the architectural significance of the mosque.
He stated, “The integration of Mughal design with local architectural elements makes this mosque unique. The entrance, for example, mirrors the thatched roofs seen in rural areas, and the four pillars resemble the pots from which banana plants traditionally grow in village settings. These elements give the mosque a distinct local flavor while preserving its Mughal roots.”
Despite its rich history and cultural importance, the mosque’s future is uncertain. There has been a lack of concerted efforts to maintain and promote the site. The Archaeology Department, responsible for the mosque’s upkeep, has placed only a small, fading signboard.
Furthermore, there are no adequate visitor facilities, such as guides or educational signage, to attract tourists or educate visitors about its history. This lack of proper infrastructure and attention has led to a growing sense of abandonment surrounding the mosque.
Arif Billah, a local resident, expressed frustration about the neglect, saying, “This mosque, which has stood for over two centuries, is being neglected. The signboard is unreadable, and the mosque is barely visible due to the construction of large buildings nearby. People come here expecting to learn about the mosque’s history but leave disappointed, as there is no effort to educate them or preserve the site.”
Sadrul Alam, an assistant headteacher at Mithapukur Hafizia Madrasa, added, “People come from both Bangladesh and abroad to visit this mosque. Yet, there is no effort to promote it. No one has worked on preserving its heritage or ensuring it is properly maintained. This mosque is more than just a place of worship; it is a piece of history.”
In addition to the lack of maintenance, the construction of multi-story buildings around the mosque further threatens its visibility and significance. These modern structures obstruct the mosque’s view and are gradually eroding the site’s aura of historical importance.
According to Md Sohag Ali, building near heritage sites should be regulated to prevent damage to these structures. He noted that, as per the Department of Archaeology’s guidelines, buildings must maintain a certain distance from ancient sites to avoid negatively impacting their integrity. Unfortunately, this regulation has been largely ignored.
However, there is some hope on the horizon. Abu Saeed Inam Tanvirul Islam, a field officer with the Department of Archaeology, confirmed that renovation work for the mosque is scheduled to begin next year.
Preparations for the restoration have already started, offering a glimmer of optimism for the mosque’s future.
Tanvirul Islam also assured that the department is committed to preserving the mosque, and no new construction will be permitted within a specified distance from the heritage site.
Rangpur’s Divisional Commissioner, MD Shahidul Islam, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are fully aware of the significance of preserving our heritage. The Mithapukur Lal Mosque has been a beacon of history in our region for over two centuries, and we are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure its survival and protection.”
Local heritage activists, such as MM Fakhr-Uz-Zaman Jahangir, have called for the formation of a preservation committee to oversee the mosque’s restoration. Such a committee could also explore the possibility of transforming the site into a center for research, attracting scholars and tourists alike.
Jahangir emphasised that the loss of such a heritage site would be a tragedy not only for Bangladesh but for the global community as well. Establishing an Islamic research center, library, and training facilities at the mosque could provide an opportunity to celebrate Islamic heritage while also generating revenue for the government.
The Mithapukur Lal Mosque, built in 1217 Hijri (1802 AD), remains an important historical monument, showcasing the fusion of Mughal and local architecture. Its three large domes, open courtyard, and intricate terracotta decorations speak to the creativity and craftsmanship of its time. The mosque stands as a valuable reminder of the past, offering insight into the region’s cultural heritage.
Despite its current state of neglect, the mosque’s story is not yet finished. The forthcoming renovation efforts, along with a broader commitment to preserving Bangladesh’s ancient structures, could help ensure that the Mithapukur Lal Mosque remains a symbol of the country’s rich history for generations to come.
As urbanisation continues to sweep across Bangladesh, it is crucial that efforts to preserve cultural landmarks like the Mithapukur Lal Mosque are prioritised.
The survival of such heritage sites depends on timely intervention and a collective commitment to safeguarding the country’s cultural treasures. The future of the Mithapukur Lal Mosque lies in the hands of the authorities, local communities, and preservationists, who must work together to prevent its permanent loss.
