The Kamranga Mosque: Architectural Synthesis and Heritage Significance in Colonial Dhaka - Review
Sazzadur Rasheed 1*, Farhana Nazneen 2, Mohammad Niamul Huda 3
Journal of Primeasia 3(1) 1-8 https://doi.org/10.25163/primeasia.3130037
Submitted: 12 May 2022 Revised: 08 July 2022 Published: 18 July 2022
Abstract
The colonial phase (1757-1947) of the Indian subcontinent saw a blend of various cultural and philosophical influences on art and architecture, prominently shaped by the Portuguese, Dutch, English, British, French, and Danish. During the British Raj (1858-1947), large-scale edifices for administrative, commercial, religious, and secular purposes were constructed, profoundly impacting the architectural landscape. Bangladesh, then part of Bengal, became adorned with numerous architectural buildings reflecting these influences. Dhaka, a major trade hub, emerged as a cultural melting pot, integrating local contributions and colonial architectural styles. This study focuses on the "Kamranga" mosque in Zindabahar, Old Dhaka, built by affluent merchant Golam Rasul Chowdhury around 1895 AD. The mosque's unique features exemplify the assimilation of colonial architectural philosophies. Through precise documentation, construction analysis, comparative analogical study, and relevant case studies, this review highlights the stylistic synthesis of the Kamranga mosque, emphasizing its blend of Moorish and Mughal styles, and proposes heritage management plans to preserve similar structures.
Keywords: Colonial architecture, Kamranga Mosque, Historicism, Dhaka heritage, Muqarnas
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