Exploring Masumabad Dighi Bari, a getaway haven in Murapara, Rupganj Upazila
Rupganj is now a short drive across the newly built 300ft road which remains as one of the free of traffic congestion due to the prohibition of public transport and heavy vehicles on the bypass route. Soon after Kanchon Bridge, a narrow and damaged road runs across the bank of the Shittalokhkha river right to the village of Murapara, recently heavily industrialized but once locality of heritage and wealth- home to the most prolific business man/industrialist in history of Bengal: Gulbaksh Bhuiyan.
Masumabad Dighi Bari is comfortably tucked in lush green area not far away from Shitollokha river, cradled on a man-made island in the middle of an immersed lake. It was the brain child of Majibur Rahman Bhuiyan, eldest son of Gulbaksh Bhuiyan, who also happened to be a social-political worker who relentless worked for the development of the region. Many of the roads, settlements and education infrastructure now completed were masterminded by the man himself. The house in the middle of a vast water body stands strong these days as an emblem for his love for nature and foresight for the region.
The small island is articulately surrounded by lush green trees specially coconut trees supporting the banks with its absorbed roots from any erosion. The construction of the house completed around 1980s, with added requirement to formulate a foundation that holds the soil intact and has a safe load bearing capacity. Heavy rain or flood often causes soil to soften and submerge causing cracks in the building or its surround structure but has remained vastly unharmed due to regular maintenance.
The architecture and design resembles a post-colonial bungalow setting with all-kinds of modern enmities like running water, electricity and etc. The grand entrance walkway to the house is really the focal point proceeding to the single room with balcony corridors surrounding it overlooking the opulent green trees and the lake. The utility spaces remain in the back along with the modern washroom with commode, basin and running shower with bathtub. As for fishing on the island, the backyard gradually descending to the water level remains a hot-spot for a good catch due to the swampy greenery, murky water and lack of direct sunlight.
Questco360 recently conducted a 360° panoramic photography documenting the intricate details and its surrounding. You can take a 360° virtual tour around the island and on it, to get an immersed experience of the property and evaluate the naturescape around. Click on the image below to ‘SEE INSIDE’.