https://maps.app.goo.gl/ikjbjxc1tLXH6tTu6
Nawazish Mohammad Khan was a respected Mughal noble and a scholar who served as the Deputy Governor of Dhaka from 1740 to 1755. He was known for his immense wealth and influence. Originally a member of the Afshar clan, a Shia Turkish group, he rose through the ranks after migrating to Bengal Subah with his family, earning a high position and fortune through his abilities.
Titled Shamat Jang, Nawazish Mohammad Khan was married to Ghaseti Begum, the daughter of Nawab Alivardi Khan. They adopted Ikram Ud Daulah, the younger brother of Nawab Siraj Ud Daulah. The premature death of Ikram deeply saddened Nawazish, who himself passed away in 1755 due to illness. He was buried in an open tomb complex situated in front of the historic Motijheel Mosque.
Nawazish understood the importance of education and established the Madrasa Al Furqaniyyah near Motijheel Mosque. At this institution, students were taught Persian, Arabic, and Bangla, in addition to their Islamic studies. He was a Shia Muslim and gifted the Motijheel to the people of Murshidabad, demonstrating his commitment to both education and environmental preservation.
The tomb complex itself is a four-walled, open structure with walls that have since fallen. There are three tombs within the enclosure: two white marble tombs belonging to Nawazish and his adopted son Ikram, and a black stone tomb for Ikram’s tutor. An Arabic inscription is carved into the black stone at the entrance. A separate tomb, believed to be that of Nawazish’s commander, Shamsher Ali, is located before the entrance.
Sadly, the tomb of this historical figure is in a state of disrepair. It’s a shame that many tourists visiting Murshidabad are unaware of its existence and the significant contributions of Nawazish Mohammad Khan. The recent addition of this historical landmark to Google Maps is a positive step, providing an opportunity for history enthusiasts to discover more about its unknown facts and its importance to the region.