Photo : Messenger
The historic `Duttabari,` birthplace of the renowned poet Michael Madhusudan Dutt, is losing its charm upon facing decay due to the absence of modern development measures.
Situated on the banks of the Kapotaksh river under Sagardari, Duttabari has been a tourist hotspot for years, attracting 80-90 thousand visitors annually and adding revenue to the government exchequer.
Custodians and attendants of Duttabari are of the view that the historic site, however, falls short of its true potential, plagued by issues such as inadequate facilities, manpower shortages, and communication deficiencies, which have contributed to a decline in tourist interest.
They emphasise the urgent need for renovations, increased manpower, and improved facilities to enhance the overall visitor experience. Preservation efforts are crucial for five structures, temples, and pond ghats, but unfortunately, the Dak bungalow, originally constructed for guests` relaxation, was demolished long ago and remains unbuilt. The poet`s birthplace has vanished, and the surrounding area, including the zamindar house and pond, demands attention.
While the Biday Ghat underwent renovation work in 1998, no further improvements have been made since 2001. The windows and doors of Duttabari, temples, and other ancient monuments are broken, roofs are cracked, and preserved furniture is deteriorating. Renovation is imperative for these structures, along with temples and pond ghats.
Madhupally lacks essential amenities such as a picnic corner with car parking, souvenir shops, cafeterias, quality toilets, facilities for picnic parties, visitor chairs, adequate lighting, and restrooms. The absence of the Dak bungalow, demolished in 2006 and not reconstructed, causes inconvenience to guests. Despite a signed memorandum for 1 crore rupees in 2018, development work faces obstacles, possibly due to improper fund disbursement.
Tuhin Hossain, Upazila Nirbahi Officer, suggests that the promised funds may not have been disbursed correctly, but the current government has invested approximately 6 crore rupees in Madhupalli, constructing a modern restroom. Renovation of five buildings, including the poet`s residence, is crucial to attract visitors.
The ongoing 9-day Madhu Mela, celebrating the birth anniversary of Michael Madhusudan Dutt from January 19 to January 27, attracts domestic and foreign tourists. However, the lack of proper facilities and infrastructure poses challenges for visitors, leading to various issues faced by the 5 to 6 lakh attendees, forcing them to return before daylight.
Efforts to highlight Michael Madhusudan Dutt`s legacy have been lacking, but Lovely Yasmin, the regional director of the Department of Archaeology in Khulna, believes that cultural practices, such as Madhusudan Dutt`s `jatrapala` (staged drama), can help bring his legacy to the forefront.
The Department of Archaeology is actively working to preserve the house of Michael Madhusudan Dutt, but more attention is needed to prevent the decay of ancient architecture and monuments. The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has proposed a project for the renovation and conservation of Duttabari, including ancient buildings, kachari houses, homesteads, and wall construction. If approved, this project could make Duttabari more attractive to tourists, addressing the decay of ancient architecture and monuments.
Messenger/Rocky
