Shapla Square
Barishal
Shapla Square, also known as Panch Rastar Mor, is a major and busy intersection in Kushtia, Bangladesh. Originally beautified in 2003 with a sculpture of the national flower, the water lily (Shapla), the square became a symbolic landmark for the city. In 2020, marking Mujib Year, the Shapla sculpture was replaced by a sculpture of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, known as the 'Mujib Sculpture.' This artwork was created by artist Jamal Mahbub Shamim and included murals of the four national leaders of Bangladesh at its base. Despite its cultural importance, the sculpture faced repeated vandalism, including a significant incident in December 2020 and a destructive protest in August 2024, which led to its complete demolition. The square remains a focal point for civic identity and public gatherings in Kushtia, reflecting both national pride and socio-political dynamics.
Plan your trip to Bangladesh with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the square's sculptures and murals. Given the history of vandalism and protests, checking local news for any ongoing events is advisable. There are no specific ticket requirements as it is a public junction, but respectful behavior is expected as the site holds national significance.
Interesting facts
- •The original Shapla sculpture was constructed in 2003 to beautify Kushtia city.
- •The Mujib Sculpture replaced the Shapla flower sculpture in 2020 to commemorate Mujib Year.
- •The Mujib Sculpture was vandalized multiple times, including a major attack in August 2024 that led to its demolition.
- •Three new sculptures of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman were erected after the destruction of the original Mujib Sculpture.
- •Murals of the four national leaders of Bangladesh are displayed at the base of the sculpture.
- •A police team is permanently stationed at the square for security purposes.
History
Shapla Square was established as a beautification project by Kushtia Municipality in 2003 with the installation of a water lily sculpture, symbolizing Bangladesh's national flower.
In 2020, during Mujib Year, this sculpture was replaced by a statue of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, reflecting the nation's reverence for its founding leader.
The new sculpture faced vandalism shortly after its installation and was subjected to further attacks during a student-public protest in August 2024, culminating in its demolition.
The site has since seen the erection of three new sculptures of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, maintaining its role as a significant civic landmark.
