Rangpur

Rangpur is one of the major cities of Bangladesh, located in the north-western part of the country. It serves as the administrative headquarters of the Rangpur Division and Rangpur District. The city holds great historical, cultural, and economic importance and is often regarded as the centre of trade, education, and governance in northern Bangladesh.

Geographical Location

Rangpur lies approximately 330 kilometres north-west of Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. It is situated on the alluvial plains of the Teesta River, which has historically influenced the region’s fertility and settlement patterns. The city is positioned at an elevation of about 34 metres above sea level, making it part of the flat and fertile Gangetic floodplain.
Rangpur is well connected to other regions through highways and railways. The Rangpur–Dhaka Highway (N5) and rail routes link it to key cities such as Dhaka, Rajshahi, and Dinajpur.

Historical Background

Rangpur has a long and diverse history that reflects the cultural and political evolution of northern Bengal. The region was once part of the ancient Pundravardhana kingdom and later came under the control of successive empires, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Palas, and Sen dynasties.
During the Mughal period, Rangpur emerged as an important administrative and trading centre due to its fertile lands and location along trade routes. Under Mughal rule, the area developed into a prosperous agrarian economy, with local landlords (zamindars) and peasants cultivating rice, jute, and indigo.
In the eighteenth century, Rangpur came under the control of the British East India Company following the defeat of the Nawabs of Bengal. The British established administrative institutions, revenue offices, and educational facilities in the city, turning it into a regional centre of colonial governance. The Rangpur Rebellion of 1783, led by peasant farmers against oppressive taxation, was one of the earliest anti-colonial revolts in Bengal.
After the Partition of Bengal (1947), Rangpur became part of East Pakistan, and following the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, it was incorporated into independent Bangladesh.

Administration and Development

Rangpur became a City Corporation in 2012, reflecting its rapid urban growth and administrative importance. The Rangpur City Corporation (RpCC) oversees urban infrastructure, sanitation, and civic development. The city also serves as the divisional headquarters of Rangpur Division, which was created in 2010 to improve regional governance.
The city is divided into several administrative wards and zones, and it includes both urban and semi-urban areas that have expanded due to rural migration and economic development.

Economy

Rangpur’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, trade, and small-scale industries. The surrounding region is one of Bangladesh’s most fertile agricultural zones, producing rice, potatoes, sugarcane, and tobacco. The area is also known for its high-quality jute and tea cultivation, especially in nearby districts such as Panchagarh and Kurigram.
In recent years, Rangpur has experienced economic diversification with the growth of service industries, education, and light manufacturing. The city has several marketplaces, including the Rangpur Central Market and Modern Bazar, which serve as commercial hubs.
The Rangpur Sugar Mills and Cigarette Factory have historically contributed to local industry, and new businesses continue to emerge as part of Bangladesh’s broader economic expansion.

Education and Institutions

Rangpur is an educational centre for northern Bangladesh, housing a number of prominent institutions:

• Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR): Established in 2008, it is a major public university named after Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, a pioneer of women’s education in Bengal.
• Rangpur Medical College: Founded in 1970, it is one of the key medical colleges in the country.
• Carmichael College: Established in 1916 during British rule, it remains one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in Bangladesh.
• Rangpur Cadet College: A renowned residential school preparing students for leadership and defence services.

These institutions have made Rangpur a hub for higher education in the northern region.

Demographics and Culture

Rangpur has a diverse and vibrant population, with most residents speaking Bangla (Bengali) and adhering to Islam, while Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian minorities also live in harmony. The city’s culture is deeply rooted in the traditions of North Bengal, reflected in its folk music, dance, and festivals.
Important cultural features include:

• Rangpur Natya Parishad and local theatres promoting Bengali drama and performing arts.
• Traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and bamboo work.
• Folk festivals and fairs that celebrate rural life and harvest seasons.

The cuisine of Rangpur is known for its regional delicacies, including pitha (rice cakes) and local sweets such as chomchom and rasgulla.

Landmarks and Attractions

Rangpur features a mix of historical and natural attractions, including:

• Tajhat Palace: A grand Indo-Saracenic palace built in the early 20th century by a local zamindar. It now houses the Rangpur Museum, displaying archaeological and historical artefacts.
• Begum Rokeya Memorial: Dedicated to the renowned social reformer and writer Begum Rokeya.
• Rangpur Zoo: One of the largest zoological gardens in Bangladesh.
• Town Hall: A colonial-era structure often used for cultural events and gatherings.
• Teesta Barrage: Located near Rangpur, this is the largest irrigation project in Bangladesh and a key source of regional agriculture and tourism.