World · Bangladesh Bureau
Mystery surrounds three sealed safes discovered at historic Ahsan Manzil
Authorities have opened two of five safes found at Dhaka's Ahsan Manzil museum, while the contents and purpose of three remaining safes remain unknown. The discovery has raised questions about what valuables or documents may be locked away in the palatial residence.
LSN Bangladesh ·

Five safes have been discovered within Ahsan Manzil, the 19th-century palace museum in Old Dhaka, prompting an investigation into their contents and historical significance. Officials have successfully opened two of the safes, though details about what was found remain limited. The three unopened safes continue to puzzle authorities and heritage experts seeking to understand their origins and what they might contain.
Ahsan Manzil, constructed in 1872 and home to the prominent Nawab family of Dhaka, was converted into a museum in 1992 to preserve the region's architectural and cultural heritage. The discovery of the safes adds another layer to the palace's complex history and the artifacts housed within its walls. Experts are investigating whether the sealed safes contain historical documents, personal valuables, or other items of cultural importance.
Authorities have not yet disclosed specific information about the contents of the two opened safes or their plans for accessing the remaining three. The findings may provide new insights into the lifestyle, business dealings, and personal affairs of the Nawab family during the British colonial period. Specialists are working to determine whether the sealed safes require special expertise or equipment to open safely without damaging any contents.
The discovery has generated interest among historians and cultural heritage advocates who see Ahsan Manzil as a crucial repository of regional history. Officials have indicated that further investigation and documentation will be necessary before public disclosure of any findings. The mystery surrounding the unopened safes underscores the ongoing work required to fully catalog and preserve the palace's historical collection.