Narsingdi:A new museum named 'Ganga Riddhi' is nearing completion in Wari-Bateshwar, Narsingdi, aimed at preserving and showcasing the treasures of the ancient Wari-Bateshwar civilisation, which dates back nearly 2,500 years.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the museum is being constructed at a cost of Tk 7.69 crore and promises to provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the remains of an ancient fortified city, including its trade networks, craftsmanship, architecture, and cultural heritage.
The archaeological site, located across the villages of Wari and Bateshwar in Belabo upazila and nearby Shibpur upazila, is considered one of the most significant ancient urban settlements in the country. Archaeologists suggest that a prosperous fortified city thrived in the area around 2,500 years ago, with some evidence indicating human settlement dating back 3,000 to 4,000 years.
The discovery of this civilisation began with local schoolteacher Hanif Pathan in the 1930s and was continued by his son, Habibullah Pathan. A major breakthrough occurred in 1989 when Professor Dilip Kumar Chakrabarti of the University of Cambridge highlighted its potential as an ancient civilisation centre. Systematic excavations began in 2000 under Oitihya Onneshan, uncovering ancient silver coins, weights, terracotta objects, and more.
Despite significant discoveries, preserving the excavated structures has been challenging due to insufficient conservation facilities. Many remains have been reburied, and artefacts are sent for research, limiting public access. The Ganga Riddhi Museum is expected to address this by offering a permanent facility for displaying important archaeological finds.
Construction of the museum started in 2019, funded by the local government and implemented by the Narsingdi Zila Parishad. The project is nearing completion and is expected to be finished within the next two to three months. Meanwhile, Oitihya Onneshan has established an open-air museum to introduce visitors to the archaeological heritage of the ancient city.
Professor Dr M Sufi Mostafizur Rahman expressed hope that the museum would enhance archaeological preservation and tourism development, allowing visitors to gain deeper knowledge of ancient Bengal's lifestyle and culture. Local residents have urged for the museum's timely completion and the enhancement of tourist facilities and infrastructure.
Wari-Bateshwar, with its ancient fortifications, Buddhist remains, and evidence of early urban life, holds significant potential as a major archaeological and heritage tourism destination. The Ganga Riddhi Museum is expected to play a crucial role in preserving this historical legacy for future generations.