Students of the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) of AIUB went on a study tour at the Panam’s beautiful and ancient city in Narayanganj on 25th February 2023. Ms. Farhana Afroz and Mr. Niaz Majumdar, Faculty Members of FASS organized the field trip for the students of Bengali Language, and Literature and Art & Aesthetics courses of the Department of Media and Mass Communication.
The Panam City, also known as Panam Nagar, is a historical attraction of Bangladesh for its old architecture located at Sonargaon, Narayanganj. The city bears the memory of Isa Khan, one of the twelve Bhuiyas and the ruler of Bengal. This small city was then known as the capital of Isa Khan during the 15th century, and some memories of that era still remain. This place is also known as the lost city of Sonargaon. In 2006, World Monument Fund declared Panam Nagar as one of the 100 ruinous historical establishments.
It is one of the old capitals of the historic region of Bengal and was an administrative center of Eastern Bengal. It was also a port and trading center. During British colonial rule, merchants built many Indo-Saracenic townhouses in the Panam neighborhood. Sonargaon was central to the muslin trade in Bengal.
During the era of British ruling, Panam nagar was occupied by Hindu merchants and traders. They built the current old edifies there that time (probably early 19th century or late 18th). The houses were all around in a same place having a road in between which is around 600 meters in length. At the either side of the city two canals are seen (which were probably built to protect the city).
The Sonargaon museum is located nearby. People who visit Panam city also visit the museum before or after. The museum has several displays for visitors to help them to know more about the history and culture of Bangladesh.
Panam Nagar is an exceptional and extraordinary example of linear urban settlement that simultaneously combines Bengali and European architecture. A comprehensive approach is essential to preserve our 'Living Heritage'.
Students photographed the old city scene. They capture the great archaeological remains of Panama City as well as the history.
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