US grants $235,000 to restore Mughal-era Musa Khan Mosque

A restoration and preservation project of the Mughal-era Musa Khan Mosque at the University of Dhaka was formally launched today (31 March), with financial support from the United States, aiming to safeguard one of the capital's lesser-preserved historical structures.

The project, being implemented by the Department of Archaeology, Bangladesh, under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, will run for 36 months from April 2026 to March 2028, with an estimated budget of $235,300.

Funding is being provided through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP), a programme that supports the protection of cultural heritage worldwide.

Located within the Dhaka University campus near Curzon Hall, the Musa Khan Mosque is considered a significant yet relatively overlooked example of Mughal-era architecture in Bengal.

The inauguration ceremony was held on the mosque premises on 31 March with Cultural Affairs Adviser Nitai Roy Chowdhury, US Ambassador Brent T Christensen, and Vice Chancellor of University of Dhaka Professor A B M Obaidul Islam. Photo: TBS

The mosque is a three-domed structure built on a raised platform and is traditionally associated with Musa Khan, son of Bara Bhuiyan leader Isa Khan. It also contains vaulted chambers beneath its elevated platform, suggesting its historical use may have extended beyond a conventional place of worship.

Despite its architectural value, the structure has long remained outside the focus of large-scale conservation efforts. Officials said the restoration will prioritise structural stabilisation and conservation of original materials.

The initiative will also produce architectural documentation, including 3D modelling, to support future research and conservation planning. 

A Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) will be conducted to ensure alignment with sustainable development practices.

Authorities also plan to upgrade visitor facilities and improve the site environment, alongside promoting cultural awareness, academic research, and heritage tourism.

Although declared a protected monument in 1995, officials say prolonged lack of maintenance has led to visible deterioration, raising concerns over its structural integrity.

The mosque has been included in nomination proposals for Unesco's Tentative List under the title "Mughal Mosques of Bangladesh."

Officials expect the project to strengthen Bangladesh's capacity in heritage conservation and expand opportunities for academic engagement.

The inauguration ceremony was held on the mosque premises today.

Speaking at the event, Cultural Affairs Adviser Nitai Roy Chowdhury thanked the US government for its support, calling the initiative a symbol of enduring friendship between the two countries.

US Ambassador Brent T Christensen said, "We are proud to have supported the preservation of Bangladesh's rich cultural heritage over the past two decades through the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation. This is our 13th project under the fund."

Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University ABM Obaidul Islam said the mosque reflects a unique blend of Mughal architectural style and local adaptations.

"Being located within the campus has made it a living heritage closely connected to students, researchers, and visitors," he added.