Jhenidah's 'Neel Kuthibari' lies in negligence

Due to neglect, the historic 'Neelkuthi' in Jhenidah, once vibrant with memories of indigo production, now sits abandoned, reflecting the fate of many other ancient structures across Bangladesh.

Nil Kuthibari is located on the bank of the Kapota River in Khalishpur market of Jhenidah’s Maheshpur upazila with more than nine acres of land.

This Neelkuthi is known as Kachari Bari to locals, and many of them believe that the building was built in the 18th century.

Many traditional architectures like 'Neelkuthi' are scattered across Bangladesh but are mostly neglected, causing their gradual destruction over time.

Jhenidah's 'Neel Kuthibari' lies in negligence

The primary goal of constructing this Kuthibari was to motivate East Bengal farmers to cultivate indigo and oversee its production.

Mr. English Devrel used to manage the indigo cultivation of the region from a cottage.

England was the pioneer of the industrial revolution. At that time, white cloth was in great demand in England. Blue was an essential ingredient to maintain the white color of the cloth.

As India was under British colonial rule, the British imposed indigo cultivation on the region forcefully. This led to a loss of fertility in the land, causing reluctance among farmers to cultivate indigo. Additionally, many farmers did not receive fair prices from the British. Those who refused to cultivate indigo faced various forms of torture, some of which occurred in rooms within this hut.

After the British left the subcontinent, the Kuthir building was used as the CO office in 1956–57 and 1983–84. From 1984 to 2002, it was the Union Land Office.

The hut is currently dilapidated and on the brink of destruction due to neglect and a lack of renovation.

Hossain Ali, a 65-year-old resident, said, "Despite renovation efforts years ago, the project stalled. The Kuthi house is surrounded by century-old mango trees. Nearby houses, once used for various purposes, including storing British vehicles, are now in ruins. Additionally, recreational facilities have been destroyed."

He also said that without immediate action, the 'Neelkuthi' will soon face destruction.

The land of this cottage is listed as 'Khas' land. Government Hamidur Rahman College and Memorial Museum is situated west of Kutibari, while the Union Land Office is located to the east.

Locals said that in 2018-19, then Deputy Commissioner Saroj Kumar Nath and Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ashafur Rahman initiated the construction of Birshrestha Hamidur Rahman Eco Park here. But the project ultimately did not materialize.

Locals claim that the Kuthibari is a source of proof of torture for the people of the area. Hence, it now carries historical importance.

They also demand to save it.