Panam Nagar (পানাম নগর) : An Abandoned Hindu City from the 19th

When was Panam Nagar established? Panam Nagar, also known as Panam City, traces its origins to the late 13th century. It was initially a thriving commercial center during the British colonial period1.

How was Panam Nagar abandoned?

The city was abandoned after the partition of India in 1947 and subsequent riots in 1964. The Hindu merchants who lived there migrated to India, and the area was left deserted1.

Current state of Panam Nagar:

Today, Panam Nagar stands as a collection of dilapidated buildings along a single street. It has been declared an archaeological site, and ongoing restoration efforts aim to preserve its rich historical legacy.

Panam Nagar stretches along a single street, 5 meters wide and 600 meters long, lined with 52 abandoned houses of varying types and sizes. These houses, ranging from one to three stories, display a unique blend of urban street-front character. Despite its current state of disuse, one can still sense the vibrant life of Panam Nagar in its prime. Each house presents a facade that enriches the visual symphony of Panam Street, creating a harmonious whole.

The city is encircled by artificial canals and features shared backyard facilities like ponds and wells. Architectural unity is achieved through consistent height, symmetry, and arched openings, while verandas, balconies, and decorative parapets add variety, interlocking the buildings with the sky. The decorative treatments reflect a blend of European and local motifs, adding to the city's charm.