Mystery, Mughal Art, and a Village Mosque: Inside Singacho Bhuiyan Bari
Singacho Bhuiyan Bari Mosque [Video] located in the Barura upazila of Cumilla stands as a remarkable testament to the Mughal-era heritage of Bangladesh. Showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and enduring beauty, the mosque reflects both artistic finesse and spiritual depth. In recognition of its religious, cultural, and archaeological importance, the Government of Bangladesh officially declared it a Protected Archaeological Site in 2022.
📍 Location & Accessibility
This historic mosque is located in Aganagar village, under Barura upazila in the southeastern district of Cumilla, Bangladesh. Travelers from Cumilla city can reach the site by taking the Dhaka–Chattogram Highway to Kotbari Bishwaroad, followed by a local road journey through Kalibazar to Aganagar.
Though set in a quiet rural landscape, the mosque’s impressive design and historical significance make it a notable landmark in the region.
🏗️ Architecture & Design
The mosque is a fine example of Mughal architectural influence, featuring a rectangular layout and three elegant domes—hallmarks of classical Islamic architecture. Its walls are adorned with intricate floral patterns, creeping vines, and geometric motifs, all carved with remarkable precision. The level of detail and ornamental artistry speaks volumes about the craftsmanship of the time.
🕰️ History & Builder
According to local legends, the mosque was built by Zamindar Askar Ali Bhuiyan, reputed to be the landlord of 42 mouzas (revenue estates). While no official record confirms the exact year of building, it is widely believed that the mosque was built approximately 350 to 400 years ago, placing it in the mid–17th to 18th century CE.
🌳 Natural Beauty & Surroundings
Behind the mosque lies a courtyard, perfect for reflection and quietude. On the eastern side stretches a large pond (dighi), enhancing the spiritual ambiance. Along the pond’s western bank is a paved ghat, where worshippers perform ablutions before prayer. The serene natural setting enriches the mosque’s sacred character.
🏛️ Archaeological Significance & Restoration
In recognition of its historical and architectural value, the Government of Bangladesh declared the mosque a Protected Archaeological Site on March 1, 2022. Restoration and preservation efforts were undertaken during the 2024–2025 fiscal year by the Regional Office of the Department of Archaeology, Chattogram Division, based in Cumilla, to conserve its legacy for future generations.
🎭 Cultural Significance
Singacho Bhuiyan Bari Mosque serves as a living monument of faith, art, and heritage more than just a place of worship. Its enduring architectural elegance and historical presence make it a significant representation of Bangladesh’s rich Islamic architectural tradition. Standing quietly through the centuries, it continues to bear witness to the glory of a bygone era.
✍️ Written by: Md Shahin Alam
📚 Researcher & Writer on Archaeology, Landscape, Ancient Architecture and Heritage of Bangladesh
Ref: Translated and adapted from the Bengali article:
‘সিঙ্গাচো ভূঁইয়া বাড়ি মসজিদ: কুমিল্লার ইতিহাসবাহী এক মুসলিম স্থাপত্য’
Tags: Singacho Bhuiyan Bari Mosque, Mughal architecture, Cumilla historical mosque, Islamic heritage of Bangladesh, Village mosque, Barura upazila heritage, Mughal mosque in Bangladesh, Rural Islamic architecture, Hidden mosques of Bangladesh, Bhuiyan Bari history, Cumilla archaeology, Unknown Mughal site, Singacho Mosque mystery, Historical mosques in Bangladesh, Bangladesh travel history.