Dhaka,  Wednesday
2 April 2025 , 01:44

Donik Barta

From Political Legacy to Dining Destination: The Controversial Transformation of Mymensingh's 'Sundar Mohal'

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Published At: 09:20:38pm, 21 March 2025

Updated At : 09:20:38pm, 21 March 2025

Photo: Collected

ছবি: Photo: Collected

The iconic Sundar Mohal, a historic building in Mymensingh that once served as a political hub for the National Party, is now at the center of a heated controversy. Located on Fire Service Road, this two-story structure, which witnessed pivotal moments in Bangladesh's political history, is being transformed into a restaurant named Kutumbari Restaurant. The decision has sparked outrage among locals and political activists, who view the move as a betrayal of the building's legacy.

The building, owned by Begum Raushan Ershad, the widow of former President Hussain Muhammad Ershad, has long been associated with the National Party's political activities. However, following internal party conflicts and a decline in its political significance, the building fell into disrepair. Recently, it was leased to businessman Bazlur Rahman Mintu, who plans to open a restaurant there.

The transformation has not been without resistance. Angry students and locals have vandalized the building, labeling it "Dalal Mohal" (Traitor's Palace) and protesting its commercialization. Despite the backlash, Mintu has moved forward with renovations, clearing debris and preparing the space for its new purpose.

While some argue that repurposing the building will breathe new life into the abandoned structure, others see it as an erasure of political heritage. The National Party's local leaders have expressed mixed reactions, with some acknowledging the lease agreement and others vowing to reclaim the building's former glory.

As Sundar Mohal prepares to welcome diners, the debate over its transformation continues to simmer, reflecting deeper tensions between preserving history and embracing change. 

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