Bangladesh’s oldest museum has a 116-year history

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 28, 2026

The Varendra Research Museum in Rajshahi, Bangladesh, is celebrating 116 years but struggles with funding shortages, administrative disputes, and inadequate facilities that limit its preservation efforts. Without clear government responsibility and increased public support, plans for modernization and expanded academic programs remain uncertain, threatening the museum’s ability to safeguard and promote the nation’s cultural heritage.

The Varendra Research Museum in Rajshahi, Bangladesh’s oldest museum, marks 116 years since its founding but continues to face significant challenges related to funding, administration, and preservation. Established in 1910 by Kumar Sarat Kumar Ray of the Dighapatia zamindar family, the museum originally housed a private collection of archaeological artefacts. Early hurdles included protecting its holdings from outside claims, notably from the Indian Museum in Calcutta, and these struggles over institutional ownership persist today.

Currently managed by Rajshahi University since 1964, the museum operates within a historic building that has become a heritage site itself. However, the original structure is aging and unable to accommodate the full collection. Plans exist for a modern expansion involving the demolition of additional old buildings to construct a high-rise facility, but the timing of this project remains uncertain and controlled by university administration.

Museum director Professor Kazi Md Mostafizur Rahman highlights bureaucratic challenges in maintenance and oversight, noting a long-standing dispute between Bangladesh’s education and cultural ministries over who should take responsibility for the institution. “They keep passing the responsibility back and forth,” he said, emphasizing the lack of sustained financial support from national sources. While international partnerships, such as a recent agreement with Durham University for staff training, provide expertise, they do not offer funding, which Rahman believes must come domestically.

Visitor engagement and public awareness also present difficulties. The museum attracts tourists but offers no guided tours, audio guides, or staff to interpret exhibits, requiring visitors to navigate the galleries independently. The building’s atmosphere conveys a sense of historical significance yet also one of neglect. Rahman laments the underuse of the museum’s extensive library, which contains many rare volumes but sees little patronage, especially from younger generations who rely on digital resources rather than traditional texts.

The museum’s own academic journal ceased publication several years ago but is set to resume with an annual release, reflecting efforts to revitalize scholarly output despite limited resources. Rahman also advocates for the establishment of an archaeology department at Rajshahi University, stating that Bangladesh’s educational focus on science and commerce has overshadowed historical and cultural studies.

Acknowledging broader societal attitudes, Rahman observed that appreciation for museums and heritage is generally low among the public, a sentiment he attributes partly to national neglect in celebrating historical contributors. He emphasized that passion and commitment among museum professionals are essential to preserving Bangladesh’s cultural roots.

Despite its historical importance and rich collection, the Varendra Research Museum remains constrained by financial limitations, administrative ambiguity, and infrastructure challenges. Its future development hinges on resolved governmental oversight, increased funding, and greater public engagement to ensure its preservation for generations to come.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.