United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, Brent Christensen, has immersed himself in the rich architectural heritage and celebrated culinary traditions of Old Dhaka during a recent visit accompanied by his wife, Diane. The tour offered the American diplomat a vivid glimpse into the historic quarter’s distinctive character, where Mughal-era monuments, centuries-old religious institutions and bustling alleyways coexist with a thriving urban culture.
According to a statement issued by the US Embassy in Dhaka on Thursday (5 February), the ambassador’s itinerary began at Lalbagh Fort, one of the capital’s most prominent Mughal landmarks. Construction of the fort commenced in 1678 under Prince Muhammad Azam, son of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, although the complex was never fully completed. Despite its unfinished state, Lalbagh Fort remains an enduring symbol of Mughal influence in Bengal and a focal point for both domestic and international visitors.
A highlight of the ambassador’s visit was the Hammam Khana, the fort’s historic bathhouse, which has recently undergone careful conservation with financial support from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). Established by the US Department of State, the AFCP provides grants worldwide to safeguard significant cultural sites, artefacts and traditions. The restoration of the Hammam Khana has been widely regarded as a model project, preserving intricate architectural features while improving structural stability and visitor access.
In a recorded video message, Ambassador Christensen remarked: “Good day. I am Brent Christensen, the United States Ambassador to Bangladesh. I am delighted to be in Old Dhaka today. In 2021, my predecessor, Ambassador Earl Miller, nominated this site for support under the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. Among many worthwhile initiatives, this stands out as an excellent example.”
Expressing satisfaction with the restoration work, he noted that the site appeared markedly transformed compared with his earlier visit. “The work carried out here is truly impressive. It looks entirely different from how I remember it just a few years ago. It is a pleasure to return and to receive such warm hospitality,” he added.
After touring Lalbagh Fort, the ambassadorial delegation proceeded to the 17th-century Hoseni Dalan, an important religious site for the Shia Muslim community in Bangladesh. They later explored the narrow, lively lanes of Old Dhaka, observing the rhythms of daily life that distinguish the historic district from the modern, high-rise quarters of the capital.
The visit also included sampling traditional Old Dhaka cuisine, renowned for its distinctive flavours and Mughal influences. Dishes such as Dhaka-style biryani, kebabs, bakarkhani bread and local sweets were presented as part of the cultural experience.
A summary of the principal sites visited is provided below:
| Site নাম | Construction Period | Historical Significance | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lalbagh Fort | Begun 1678 | Mughal-era fort complex in Dhaka | Includes mosque, tomb and Hammam Khana |
| Hammam Khana | 17th century | Royal bathhouse within fort | Restored with US AFCP funding |
| Hoseni Dalan | 17th century | प्रमुख Shia religious site | مرکز of Muharram observances |
The embassy noted that the ambassador’s visit underscored the enduring cultural ties between Bangladesh and the United States, particularly in the field of heritage preservation. By supporting conservation efforts and engaging directly with local communities, such initiatives aim to ensure that Old Dhaka’s architectural treasures and living traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.