Manikganj

Manikganj is a town situated in Dhaka Division, Bangladesh. It serves as the administrative centre of both Manikganj District and Manikganj Sadar Upazila. Noted for its relatively low levels of pollution, the town has experienced recent urban development, including the construction of a highway linking Dhaka with Singair Upazila, thereby enhancing regional connectivity and transportation infrastructure. The Padma River flows adjacent to the district, contributing to its ecological diversity and supporting a range of local flora and fauna. Manikganj plays a strategic role in inter-regional connectivity, linking the north-western and south-western parts of Bangladesh via the Paturia and Aricha ferry terminals.
The area is locally renowned for the production of molasses, particularly from the village of Jhitka, and features several cultural and historical landmarks. Among these, the Baliati Zamindari Palace stands out as a prominent tourist attraction, reflecting the architectural heritage of the region.

History

Manikganj was the home to the Baliati Zamindari and royal family of Raja Manik Ram Basu. Manikganj is believed to have been named after Raja Manik Ram Basu. Raja Manik Ram Basu was the monarch of the Manikganj Raj and Hatkhola royal family, in North Calcutta. His granddaughter Princess Kalishakamini Dasi was married to Peary Charan Sarkar.

Demographics

At the time of the 2011 census, Manikganj Paurashava had 16,459 households and a population of 71,698. 13,017 were under 10 years of age. Manikganj had a literacy rate of 69.10% and a sex ratio of 987 females per 1000 males.