National Parliament House or Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (Bengali: জাতীয় সংসদ ভবন) is the National Assembly Building of Bangladesh, located in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, capital Dhaka. It is widely regarded as one of the largest and most iconic legislative complexes in the world. Designed by renowned American architect Louis Isadore Kahn. The complex represents a masterpiece of modern architecture blended with Bangladeshi cultural symbolism.
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Historical Information
Before the current building existed, the first two parliaments operated from the Old Sangsad Bhaban, which now functions as the Prime Minister’s Office.
The construction of Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban began in 1961 during Pakistan’s administration to host the federal legislature of East and West Pakistan.
However, after Bangladesh’s independence, the building was completed on 28 January 1982, and the second Parliament of Bangladesh used it for the first time on 15 February 1982.
Since then, it has remained the permanent home of Bangladesh’s National Assembly.
Basic Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Construction began | 1961 |
| Inauguration | 28 January 1982 |
| Cost | Tk. 129 crore (1.29 billion) |
| Architect | Louis I. Kahn |
| Total Area | 200 acres (800,000 m²) |
| Location | Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka |
| Number of Parliaments Used | 7 |
| Coordinates | 23.762465°, 90.378545° |
Architectural Significance
Louis Kahn designed not only the main building but the entire parliamentary complex, including:
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Surrounding lawns
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Artificial lakes
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Residential facilities for Members of Parliament
The main building is surrounded by a scenic lake, highlighting Bangladesh’s riverine heritage.
In 1989, the Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for its visionary design and unique use of light and space.
Location and Layout
The complex is situated in the heart of Sher-e-Bangla Nagar and is bounded by:
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North: Lake Road
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East: Rokeya Sarani
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South: Manik Mia Avenue
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West: Mirpur Road
Three Major Zones of the Building
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Main Plaza — 823,000 sq. ft
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South Plaza — 223,000 sq. ft
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Presidential Plaza — 65,000 sq. ft
A beautifully designed lake surrounds the primary structure. The MP hostels are located in the outer sections of the complex.
Design Philosophy
Kahn’s architectural vision focused on:
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Geometric forms
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Deeply recessed porticoes
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Efficient use of natural light
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Symbolism inspired by Bangladeshi culture
Kahn’s Concept of Light
Louis Kahn famously described light as a “poetic entity”:
“The columns as solids frame the spaces of light… the column is the maker of light and can take on complex shapes and be the supporter of spaces.”
This philosophy inspired the building’s unique light courts, geometric windows, and voids that illuminate interior spaces naturally.
The Bhaban (Main Building)
The structure is composed of nine blocks:
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Eight peripheral blocks: 110 ft height
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Central octagonal block: 155 ft height
These blocks are interconnected through:
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Corridors
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Stairs
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Lifts
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Light courts
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Circular hallways
The exterior appears almost like a single, unified block, despite its internal complexity.
The Main Plaza
The highlight of the Main Plaza is the Parliament Chamber, capable of accommodating up to 354 members.
Key Features:
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Parabolic shell roof (117 ft high)
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Daylight filtered through geometric openings
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A centerpiece metallic-web chandelier
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VIP galleries and press areas
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Library (Level 1)
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MPs’ lounges (Level 3)
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Party rooms (upper levels)
The South Plaza
Facing Manik Mia Avenue, this plaza serves as the primary entrance used by members during sessions.
Includes:
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Controlling gates
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Driveways
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Car parking
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Telephone exchange
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Mechanical rooms
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Maintenance offices
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Open plaza leading to the main building
Presidential Plaza
Located on the northern side, facing Lake Road, this area functions as a peaceful gathering space for MPs.
Features:
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Marble steps
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Open gallery
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Walkways and seating areas
Tourism and Accessibility
The Main Building is restricted to authorized personnel only.
However, the entire complex, including the surrounding gardens and lake, is open to visitors.
Popular nearby attractions include:
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Crescent Lake
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Zia Uddyan (Chondrima Uddan)
The area is a favorite spot for:
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Joggers
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Skaters
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Tourists
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Photographers
The Prime Minister’s official residence is located just a five-minute walk from the Bhaban.
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