For the Indian subcontinent, the mid-1900s marked a transformative period, brimming with turmoil and hope. Leaving a century of British rule, India and the newly formed countries of Pakistan and Bangladesh held onto an optimistic vision of a transformed society. The newfound independence invited the international Modernist movement to envision a fresh identity for the nations. Spearheading the movement in Bangladesh was the architect Muzharul Islam whose work continues to influence contemporary Bangladeshi architecture.
In the years following World War II, the Modernist Movement in architecture gained momentum worldwide, its central tenet being functionalism. It aimed to create architecture that was accessible, practical, and responsive to the evolving needs of society. The movement prioritized Bangladeshi's unique needs and allowed the country to participate on an equal footing with industrialized nations. The architectural evolution in Bangladesh depicts a blend of modernist ideals with rich cultural and historical heritage.
