Preserving Perishing Stories of Ancient Gaur City Area

This thesis focuses on the overlooked heritage of Ancient Gaur city area , emphasizing its historical importance and the urgent need for preservation efforts amidst its current state of decay. It advocates for revitalizing the city through conservation, promoting cultural tourism, and enhancing local infrastructure to foster economic growth and sustainability.
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Designer(s) : Tanvir Harunor

University : Rajshahi University of Engineering & Technology

Tutor(s) : Md. Nazmul Hoda

Project Description

The region of  North Bengal, encompassing districts across India and Bangladesh, held deep historical and cultural significance during the Pala, Sena and Turko-Afghan rule. Gauda/Gour, a historic city, was a focal point of power for various dynasties, showcasing rich tangible and intangible heritage like terracotta, stone crafts, and architectural marvels. Despite its historical importance, the remnants of this once-glorious city now lie in ruins, straddling the border between Malda in West Bengal and Chapainawabganj in Bangladesh. This area, with its Rich Architectural heritage sites and local activities like handloom weaving, Gambhira songs, and traditional festivities, has untapped potential for tourism and economic growth. However, there’s a lack of initiatives to conserve and promote the remaining 400-500-year-old heritage structures, historical Dighis (ponds), and local intangible heritages. This design-based research thesis aims to address cultural heritage awareness among researchers, Govt. officials, locals and visitors, emphasizing importance of tangible and intangible heritage conservation. The goal is to facilitate heritage tourism, attract researchers, and create a vibrant experience reminiscent of the ancient Gaur city. The research involved conducting interviews, surveys, and field studies to understand factors engaging the community’s knowledge and creativity, and emphasizing training and awareness to preserve historical sensitivity and culture. Ultimately, the objective is to revive lost art forms and safeguard the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage legacy and to promote cultural tourism as well.