ABSTRACT
The overall objective of the chapter is to sketch the historical background of Dhaka city and depict its tradition, culture, and rituals. A broad range of literature from a wide range of sources was reviewed to write this chapter. Dhaka is considered as a gift of the Mughal period, though the history of the city can be traced even further back. The city has become the capital four times and remained the capital of Bangladesh since the independence of the country. Mughal emperors notably contributed to enriching the culture of Dhaka city, constructing cultural heritages and monuments, introducing a diversified food culture, and inaugurating some other festivals, such as rallies followed by Eid for Muslims and Janmashtami for Hindus. During the British regime, Dhaka city faced insignificant focus and patrons, and the city lost its glamour. However, a good number of higher and practical educational institutions were built during this regime. Since the separation of the Indian sub-continent, Dhaka got its primacy and became the centre of politics, economics, education, culture, and administration. Now Dhaka has the richest food bucket, enriched between the Mughal and British regimes. Dhakaiya songs, e.g., Pala Gan, Kawali, etc., dancing groups, e.g., Bayezi, Miraci or Miracin, etc. bore significance in their traditional culture. The culture of the marriage of the Dhakaiya people is dynamic and unique and Dhakaiya people would celebrate their marriage rituals in a somewhat unique way. Dhaka has a rich history of cultural festivals as well, e.g., Nouka Baich, Shakrain, and Pohela Boishakh. The chapter will give readers a thorough understanding of the historical background of Dhaka city and its traditional cultures and rituals, and will be of special interest to people interested in community, academicians and researchers, and policymakers.
