S DILIP ROY, Lalmonirhat

The Kakina Zamindarbari, a historic palace located in Kakina village under Kaliganj upazila of Lalmonirhat, was once a centre of wealth, education, culture, and self-governance in the region.

However, the century-old landmark from the erstwhile feudal era in Bengal is now on the verge of ruin following decades of neglect, lack of maintenance and renovation. Once vibrant with dazzling cultural gatherings, the palace now stands silent, holding only the remnants of past memories.

Dr Ashrafuzzaman Mondal, director of the Lalmonirhat District Museum, said the Kakina area used to be an ancient settlement that flourished in the northeastern edge of the Indian subcontinent, with a history spanning several centuries. Over time, the region used to be known by various names such as Konkona, Konkania, Kankina, Koikina, Kakinia, and Kakina.

He also said that about 300 years ago, a zamindari (feudal estate) was established in Kakina through a land grant by the then Mughal emperor to Zamindar Kashinath Roy, the patriarch of this influential family. Kashinath later reorganised agriculture, trade, architecture, and administration in the region. His successors, Mahima Ranjan Roy and Shambhucharan Roy, further expanded the estate and its influence, turning Kakina into an economic and cultural hub of northern Bengal.

Zamindar Mahima Ranjan Roy Chowdhury played a significant role in the development and cultural advancement of Kakina. He established “Banga Bidyalaya” in Rangpur, which later became known as Kailash Ranjan High School.

During his time, Mahimaganj, Teesta, Mahendranagar, Lalmonirhat, Aditmari, Mogolhat, and Kakina railway stations were established under the Kakina Zamindari. He was also the founding president of the Rangpur Literary Society and had donated land for the construction of a theatre hall.

Nurul Amin, a local college teacher

SEE PAGE 4 COL 3