Bhawal Garh, spread across the Shal forest region of Gazipur district, remains a unique testimony to the history, tradition and folklore of Bengal, reflecting centuries of political power, cultural development and legendary events.

Once covered with dense Shal, Ghazari and Karai forests, Bhawal Garh encompassed parts of present-day Gazipur Sadar, Sreepur, Kaliakoir and Kapasia upazilas. Owing to its elevated and naturally protected terrain, the area historically served as a secure administrative centre and later emerged as one of the richest zamindaris (landowners) of Bengal.

Historians said that Bhawal Pargana gained prominence during the Mughal era, particularly under Emperor Akbar, when it became an important centre of revenue collection following the introduction of a modern tax system. Earlier, the region was ruled by the Ghazi family, including Daulat Ghazi, before passing into the hands of Hindu rulers such as Balaram and later Kali Narayan.

The Bhawal zamindari was formally established in the late 17th century. Its capital, the Bhawal Rajbari-constructed between 1870 and 1880-still stands as a striking architectural landmark. Built in a blend of European and Mughal styles, the palace reportedly contains 365 rooms. Other notable structures include the Nat Temple inside the palace complex, Bhawal Raj Dighi, and the cremation math temple nearby.

Senior journalist Rezaul Bari Babul of Gazipur told BSS that administrative activities of Bhawal Garh revolved around the Rajbari area, where the district administration is now located. "The huge Raj Dighi was excavated to enhance both security and aesthetic beauty," he said.

AM Ashraf Hossain, secretary of the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, Gazipur Unit said Bhawal Pargana once generated significant revenue for the Mughal administration. "With proper planning, the remaining resources of Bhawal Pargana could still contribute to national welfare," he added, expressing concern over the gradual decay of historical sites.

One of the most sensational episodes associated with Bhawal Garh is the Bhawal Sanyasi case. In 1930, a monk claimed to be Ramendra Narayan Roy, the second Bhawal Raja believed to have died years earlier, and filed a lawsuit seeking recognition as the rightful heir to the Bhawal estate. The case, contested by Rani Bibhavati Devi, became one of the longest and most dramatic legal battles during British rule in India.

Today, parts of the once-vast forest have been preserved as Bhawal National Park, while folk tales of saints, robbers and heroic figures continue to enrich local culture through songs, processions and oral traditions.

Despite its growing popularity as a tourist destination, many historical structures in Bhawal Garh face deterioration due to inadequate conservation.

Local residents and heritage activists have called on the government to declare Bhawal Garh a national heritage site and undertake systematic preservation efforts.