The park was originally known as 'Antaghar Maidan' because it housed a club (Antaghar) used by the colonial elite.
It was renamed Victoria Park in 1887 to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
The current name honors Bahadur Shah Zafar, the last Mughal Emperor of India.
The park is situated near the Jagannath University campus, making it a frequent gathering point for students.
Many of the local protest movements against British colonial rule were organized within the vicinity of these grounds.
Bahadur Shah Park, formerly known as Victoria Park, is a historical public park located in the old part of Dhaka, Bangladesh. It occupies the site of the former Parade Ground of the British East India Company. The park serves as a memorial to the soldiers and civilians who were executed here following the Indian Rebellion of 1857. An obelisk monument stands in the center of the park to commemorate these historical events. The grounds are characterized by mature trees, paved walkways, and formal gardens. It remains a significant site for the local community and acts as an urban green space amidst the dense architecture of Old Dhaka.
The central obelisk monument surrounded by the park's dense greenery.
Visit during the early morning hours to see the park when it is most peaceful and before the heat of the day.
Keep a close watch on personal belongings as the surrounding areas in Old Dhaka are often crowded.
Combine your visit with a walking tour of the nearby historical architectural sites of Old Dhaka.
Avoid visiting during the midday sun or during extreme monsoon downpours, as the park lacks large covered shelter areas.
Dress modestly as it is a public space in a conservative part of the city; refrain from loud behavior.
