Formally as the first-ever post of mine in this community, my initial intent was to make it as impressive as it was possible. Like writing a piece about a place that is as beautiful as it could ever be under the heavens, and mind you, I do have places like that around me, which I had the privilege of visiting quite a few times and perhaps will write about them later. A few beaches with enchanting waters stretched as far as the eye can see, or a mountain view of a lake of humbling size. Nothing that most of the travel freaks which this community is full of haven't ever seen before. And while traveling, I have learned that what makes a place special is not its mountains or lakes. What makes it unique is its people and its culture. But it is not possible to surmise all of it in a single piece, now is it? So, for now, what I have to offer instead is my writing to showcase a place with a century old history that might give one some insight into my culture while being appropriate for this community.
To begin with, this palace, full of archeological interests, is only a ten-minute ride from my home. A palace that is locally known as Ray Nibash, more formally Ara Para Jomidarbari. Jomar bari means house of the landlord, and Arapara is the place where this palace is situated. Almost a hundred years ago, my country's lowest tier nobilities were formally called Jomidars or Barons. This palace is one of the last historical remnants of that long-extinct culture.
Bangladesh, my country, is full of such palaces. At first glance, it might seem from the photo to be an ordinary old brick pile about to collapse any minute. But let me tell you why it is not. The individual after whom this palace, aging 120 years now, is named after Ray or Rai, comes from a fierce family of rulers whom, even after trying quite a few times, the Mughals couldn't defeat.
This palace at that time was in the middle of nowhere. A thick remote forest full of ferocious tigers and poisonous snakes where no one up until a specific time period wouldn't dare to enter. And then in came this guy with his elephants and horses and turned the place into something that a century later became the countries one of the most important economic zones.
This isn't just an empty house tho. Still, quite a large extended family lives inside those walls. Astoundingly this palace has a matriarch, a tradition which I have never seen before. And The old woman you see sitting on the pathway, who by her own accords has seen the gist of the first world war:3 is the head of this family. Didn't look that old to me, but in my opinion, that detail kinda gives the story a bit of more depth, does it not?
It's not as impressive as Ami Salant of Tel Aviv, but the carvings, the woodworks, and the faintly visible artworks ooze of nobility from up close. The statues of lions and Hindu goddesses guarding the entryway have been stolen in the past few years; still, some remain here and there. The whole compound has two slightly distinct palaces built thirty years apart, a large pond, and a temple of the Hindu goddess kali. Just behind the temple is a large outhouse where usually guests and the house priests used to reside. Nowadays, the original owners have rented it in hopes of some extra coins a month. Despite being so financially needy themselves, the families living here, except taking photos of the indoors, showed us every bit of hospitality available at their disposal. And so as my title suggests, you haven't been here, have you? But, by any chance, if you do, do not forget to come bearing gifts along. As they will not let you go without a feast of the kings. And kings do not visit places empty-handed:3
