Museum of Rajas

The Museum of Rajas, prominently known as Hasson Raza's Museum, is a culturally significant destination located in the Zindabazar area of Sylhet. This museum is housed in the former residence of the renowned Bengali folk poet and singer Hasson Raza, preserving the legacy and personal artifacts of this influential figure in Bengali folk music. It serves as a tribute to Hasson Raza's contributions to folk culture and provides a valuable resource for research on the history and heritage of Bengali folk traditions.

Why Visit the Museum of Rajas

• Explore the personal belongings and household items of Hasson Raza, including his colorful cloak, tea table, and self-written music, offering a unique glimpse into his daily life.
• View an exclusive portrait of Lalon Shah and the only photograph of Hasson Raza, collected from Kolkata in 1962, along with paintings of various folk artists.
• Experience the rich cultural atmosphere created by the displays of Hasson Raza's folk songs and poems, which enrich the museum's exhibits and provide deeper insights into his artistic contributions.
• Benefit from the museum's role in inspiring research on folk culture and its history, making it a key resource for scholars and enthusiasts of Bengali folk traditions.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit the Museum of Rajas is from November to February when the weather in Sylhet is mild and pleasant. This period allows for comfortable exploration of the museum's exhibits without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rainfall.

How to Get There

• By Air: Fly into Sylhet International Airport and take a rickshaw or CNG auto-rickshaw to the museum, which is about 10 km away from the airport.
• By Train: Arrive at Sylhet Railway Station and use local transportation like rickshaws or auto-rickshaws to reach the museum.
• By Bus: Several bus services operate to Sylhet from various cities. From the bus station, you can hire a rickshaw or use local transport to get to the museum.

Tips for Visitors

• Check the museum’s official schedule and ensure it is open, as the museum is closed on Sundays.
• Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and gain a deeper understanding of Hasson Raza’s contributions to Bengali folk music.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the museum's various exhibits and artifacts.
• Respect the museum's rules regarding photography and handling of artifacts to preserve the museum’s historical integrity.

Distances from Major Cities

• Dhaka: 240 km
• Chittagong: 320 km
• Khulna: 440 km
• Barisal: 390 km
• Rangpur: 310 km
• Rajshahi: 300 km

A visit to the Museum of Rajas offers a profound connection to the rich heritage of Bengali folk culture through the life and works of Hasson Raza. This unique museum provides an engaging and educational experience for anyone interested in exploring the cultural history of Bangladesh, making it a worthwhile stop for both local and international visitors.