Khajura Lahiripara is located at the northern end of the famous Halti Bill in Naldanga Upazila of Natore. Built on a unique blend of natural beauty and history-tradition, this town was once the epicenter of zamindari opulence, culture and power. Known as the 'village of seven princesses' to the locals, this village still bears the memories of centuries of history. However, due to lack of proper preservation, the last vestiges of the tradition are gradually disappearing.
Local residents said that once there were 34 zamindar houses of Lahiri zamindars in Khajura Lahiripara. A prosperous town was built with huge buildings, beautiful architecture, temples, lakes and various infrastructures. When the zamindari system was abolished after partition, the members of the zamindar family spread to different places. Over time most of the buildings were destroyed. Today only a few dilapidated structures, old settlements and a dilapidated Shiva temple stand as witnesses to the past.
Locals said that there were 22 zamindars in this village. 7 princesses including the daughter of Rani Bhavani of Ardha Bangeswari Natore were married to the sons of 6 zamindars of this village. The sons of the zamindar were Shamakant Lahiri, Ummeka Kant Lahiri, Surendra Nath Lahiri, Raghunandan Lahiri, Surendra Mohan Lahiri and Jeetendra Nath Lahiri. Locals said that Tara Sundari, the only daughter of Rani Bhavani of Natore, was married to Raghunandan Lahiri, the zamindar of this village. Zamindar Shamakant Lahiri married two princesses. Although no one can tell about the first wife, the second wife was Indubala, the daughter of the zamindar of Muktagachha in Mymensingh district.
Local elders said that once the influence of Lahiri zamindars was very extensive in this region. Stories of their donations, religious and social activities are still popular. The legend of the seven princesses is also associated with the name of the village, which gave Khajura a distinct identity.
Today, history buffs and tourists from different parts of the country come to see the ruined buildings every day. During the monsoon season, the mesmerizing waters of the Halti Beel and the ruins of the zamindar houses create a unique scene. But, due to lack of necessary maintenance and preservation, the historical monuments are getting destroyed fast.
Local resident rural doctor. Al Amin said, “I grew up hearing stories of Lahiri zamindars from my ancestors. Once there were 34 zamindar houses here. Now most of them are destroyed. If it is preserved by the government, it can be one of the most visited tourist spots in the country.”
Chairman of Khajura Union Parishad (UP). Sohrab Hossain said, “Khajura village is the pride of our union. It has a historical identity as the 'village of seven princesses'. Locally we are taking care of cleanliness and tourist facilities. However, the archeology department needs initiative to protect the structures.”
Naldanga Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md. Ashiqur Rahman said, “We are monitoring the issues related to the land and property of this historical place. The administration is careful to ensure that no property of archaeological importance is illegally occupied.”
Naldanga Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Md. Al Imran Khan said, “The tourism potential of Khajura Lahiripara is very bright as it is located next to Halti Bill. The higher authorities will be informed about the preservation of historical structures, so that necessary initiatives can be taken.”
Asma Shaheen, Deputy Commissioner of Natore said, “Natore is a district rich in history and tradition. The matter of Lahiri Zamindar House in Khajura is under our attention. Necessary measures will be taken in coordination with the concerned department to preserve its historical monuments and utilize the tourism potential.”
Local conscious groups demand that Khajura Lahiripara be declared as a protected heritage site by conducting an archaeological survey soon. According to them, adding these historic sites to the tourism map along with the breathtaking beauty of Halti Bill will open up new horizons in Natore's tourism industry.
The dilapidated zamindar's house and Shiva temple of Khajura Lahiripara, which stand as silent witnesses of history, still echo the glory of the past. However, if effective measures are not taken to preserve them with the passage of time, the rest of the monuments of 'Sat Rajkanyar Gram' will one day be lost in the abyss of time.
