A Journey Through History
Discover the fascinating towns of ancient Bengal, each with its own unique story and rich cultural heritage. These towns once stood as vibrant centers of civilization, shaping the history of the region.
1. Pundra
Located in parts of present-day Bogra, Rajshahi, Rangpur, and Dinajpur, Pundra was a thriving township established by the Pundra tribe. Its capital, Pundranagar, later became known as Mahasthangarh, which holds the oldest known inscriptions in Bangladesh. Renowned for its ancient civilization, Pundra is considered one of the most significant towns of early Bengal.
2. Varendra
Known as Barendri, Barendra, or Barendrabhumi, this township spanned parts of Natore, Pabna, Rajshahi, Rangpur, and Dinajpur. Varendra was a prominent region in North Bengal, rich in cultural and historical significance.
3. Banga (Bengal)
The ancient town of Banga, encompassing present-day Dhaka, Faridpur, Bikrampur, and Barisal, gave birth to the Bengali nation. Historical records mention regions like Vikrampur and Navya, with the latter no longer in existence. Banga’s waterways and fertile lands made it a powerful and prosperous area.
4. Gaur
Spanning Maldah, Murshidabad, Birbhum, Burdwan, and Chapainawabganj, Gaur was the seat of a powerful kingdom in the 6th century. King Shashanka of Gaur ruled this region, with its capital at Karnasubarna, now located in Murshidabad.
5. Samatat
Samatat, believed to correspond to present-day Comilla and Noakhali, was a key town in southeastern Bengal. The area, rich in archaeological treasures like Shalban Vihar, was a hub of ancient Buddhist civilization.
6. Rarh
Located in the southern districts of West Bengal, including Burdwan, Birbhum, Bankura, Purulia, and Midnapore, Rarh holds a significant place in Bengal’s historical narrative.
7. Harikela
Stretching from Chittagong to Sylhet and Tripura, Harikela was a vital ancient town in eastern Bengal, mentioned by 7th-century writers. Its influence extended over a vast area.
8. Chandradwip
Centered in Barisal and surrounding areas like Munshiganj, Chandradwip was nestled between the Baleshwar and Meghna rivers. This small yet historically significant town was the heart of southern Bengal.
9. Saptagaon
Covering Khulna and the coastal areas, Saptagaon played a key role in Bengal's maritime history.
10. Tamralipta
Situated in today’s Midnapore district, Tamralipta, or Tamluk, was a prominent port city and cultural hub. By the 7th century, it was known as Dandabhukti.
11. Ruhm/Arakan
Encompassing Cox’s Bazar and parts of modern Myanmar, Ruhm was a town south of the Karnaphuli River, blending cultures from Bengal and Southeast Asia.
12. Suhma
This town stretched across southern Bengal, covering parts of modern Burdwan, Hooghly, Howrah, and Birbhum districts, and played a significant role in Bengal’s early history.
13. Vikrampur
Located in Munshiganj and its surroundings, Vikrampur was a vibrant center of culture and politics in ancient Bengal.
14. Bakerganj
Spanning Barisal, Khulna, and Bagerhat, Bakerganj was another vital region contributing to Bengal’s heritage.
Unlock the stories of these towns and embark on a historical journey through the ancient heart of Bengal.
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