Chandanaish Upazila

Chandanaish চন্দনাইশ
Upazila
Central Tapoban Ashram, Dohazari
Coordinates: 22°12.7′N 92°2.5′E
Country	Bangladesh
Division	Chittagong
District	Chittagong
Jatiya Sangsad constituency	Chittagong-14
Headquarters	Chandanaish Upazila Complex
Government
• Body	Upazila Council
• MP	Vacant
• Chairman	Kamela Khanam (Acting)
Area
• Total	201.99 km2 (77.99 sq mi)
Population  (2022)
• Total	252,242
• Density	1,200/km2 (3,200/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC+6 (BST)
Postal code	4380
Area code	03033
Website	chandanaish.gov.bd

Chandanaish (Bengali: চন্দনাইশ) is an upazila of Chattogram District in Chattogram Division, Bangladesh.

Location and Area

The area of Chandanaish Upazila is 201.99 square kilometers (49,913 acres).[1] Chandanaish Upazila is located in the southern part of Chattogram district between 22°02' to 22°08' north latitude and 91°49' to 92°09' east longitude. The distance of this upazila from Chattogram district headquarters is about 35/36 kilometers. Patia Upazila and Rangunia Upazila to the north of this upazila, Satkania Upazila to the south, Satkania Upazila and Bandarban Sadar Upazila of Bandarban District to the east, Patia Upazila and Anwara Upazila to the west.

Geography

Chandanaish is located at 22.2111°N 92.0417°E / 22.2111; 92.0417. It has 44,438 households and a total area of 201.99 km². Its west side is plainland and its east side is surrounded with the tertiary hill tracts. Here cultivable land is very fertile. Sangu is the main river but there are also some small rivers and canals like Borumoti (Borguni Khal locally called), Chandkhali river etc. There are a lot of Beels such as Moga Beel, Arah Beel, Ronger Beel.

History and Nomenclature

Chandanaish is an important upazila of Chattogram district. Once Chandanaish was an integral part of Patia Upazila. In 1976, Chandanaish Police Station was created by separating it from Patia Upazila. On July 2, 1983, Chandanaish Thana was upgraded to Upazila.

Chandanaish has given the gift of meritorious people who have made significant contributions in various fields at different times in the history of Bangladesh. The eastern part of this area covers a wide area of tree-covered hills and forests. Once a time, this region ie South Chattogram was in the womb of the Bay of Bengal. This place originated about 2 thousand years ago. It was a sea port during the Arakan Mughal rule. In the Munsef market of this upazila, traders from Burma (present day Myanmar) and various countries of the Middle East traded in the beautiful and fragrant Sandalwood fibers produced in the region. It is said that the area was named Chandanaish after the Sandalwood.

Administrative area

Chandanaish upazila has 2 municipalities and 8 unions. The entire administrative activities of Chandanaish Upazila are under the jurisdiction of Chandanaish Thana.

Municipalities:

• Chandanaish
• Dohazari

Unions:

1. Kanchanabad (কাঞ্চনাবাদ)
2. Joara
3. Harla (The Union Parishad function has been abolished as the entire Chandanaish Municipality of Harla Union has been incorporated)
4. Barkal
5. Barama
6. Bailtali
7. Satbaria
8. Hashimpur
9. Dohazari (Dohazari Union is included in Dohazari Municipality, so the Union Parishad activities have been abolished)
10. Dopachori

The union parishads are subdivided into 44 mauzas and 46 villages.

Demographics

Religions in Chandanaish Upazila (2022)
Religion			Percent
Islam			87.30%
Hinduism			10.63%
Buddhism			1.81%
Other or not stated			0.26%

As of the 2011 Census of Bangladesh, Chandanaish upazila had 44,438 households and a population of 233,017. 55,629 (23.87%) were under 10 years of age. Chandanaish had an average literacy rate of 53.61%, compared to the national average of 51.8%, and a sex ratio of 985 females per 1000 males. 35,248 (15.13%) of the population lived in urban areas. Ethnic population was 968 (0.42%) of the population.

According to the 1991 Bangladesh census, Chandanaish had a population of 172,843. Males constituted 51.27% of the population, and females 48.73%. The population aged 18 or over was 81,653. Chandanaish had an average literacy rate of 33.9% (7+ years), compared to the national average of 32.4%.

Education and Educational Institutes

According to the 2011 census, the literacy rate of Chandanaish Upazila is 53.6%. This upazila have 1 private university, 1 private medical college, 1 university college, 3 degree colleges (including 1 women's), 6 Fazil Madrasas, 3 Schools & Colleges (including 1 Technical), 4 Alim Madrasas, 24 Secondary Schools (including 5 for Girls), 8 Dakhil Madrasas (including 1 for Girls), 2 Lower Secondary Schools, 90 Primary Schools and 2 Abtedayi Madrasas etc.

Universities

• BGC Trust University Bangladesh (BGCTUB)

Medical colleges

• BGC Trust Medical College

Colleges

• BGC Trust Academy (School & College)
• Gachhbaria Govt. College
• Barama Degree College
• Amanatsafa Badrunnesa Mohila College
• Satbaria Oli Ahmad Bir Bikram College
• Begum Gul Chemanara Academy

High schools

• Gachhbaria Nityananda Gaurochandra Govt. Model High School(1918)
• Gachhbaria Mamtaz Begum High School
• Fatema Jinnah Girls' High School
• Satbaria High School
• East Satbaria High School
• Bailtali High School
• Jafarabad High School
• Barama Trahi Menaka High School (1925)
• Joara B. Chowdhury High School
• Barkal SZ High School
• Shuchia High School
• Kanchanabad High School
• Kashem Mahbub High School
• Jamijuri Boys' School
• Hashimpur M.A.K.U High School
• Khandighi M.L. High School
• Patandondy High School
• Keshua High School

Madrasahs

• Hashimpur Mokbuliya Kamil Madrasah
• Jafarabad Fazil Madrasah
• Joara Islamia Fazil Madrasah
• West Elahabad Ahmadiyya Sunniyya Fazil Madrasah
• Jamijuri Rojobiya Ajijia Rahmania Sunniyya Fazil Madrasah
• Abu Mariam Mahila Madrasah
• Late Sona Meah Choudory Senior Madrasah
• Hashimpur Bhandari Para Dakhil Madrasah
• Satbaria Baro Awlia Hamedia Alim Madrasah
• Rahmania Ahmadia A.S. Sunnia Dakhil Madrasah (South Gachhbaria Dakhil Madrasah)
• Chagachor Muchabia Nosimia Fazil Madrasah
• Hachondondi Mohammadia Matiur Rahman Alim Madrasah

Others

• Jamalur Rahman Khan Science-Technology School & College (Jamijuri Technical School and College)
• Alhaz Nurul Islam Pre-cadet School
• Mozaher Para BRAC School, Hashimpur
• Kanaimadary Junior high school

Health

Chandanaish upazila has 2 hospitals, 2 upazila health complexes, 5 union health centers, 10 family planning centers and 10 community clinics.

• Ibrahim Iqbal Memorial Hospital, Kanchanabad
• Amra Community Hospital, Barkal
• 50 bedded Upazila Health Complex, Chandanish Sadar
• Upazila Health Complex, Dohazari And
• Currently, several private hospitals and diagnostic centers have been opened, where common people seek medical care.

Communication System

Chandanaish Upazila is primarily connected to the rest of the country via the Chattogram-Cox's Bazar Highway (formerly known as the Arakan Road). Additionally, the area can be accessed through the Chattogram-Anwara Road via the Barkal Bridge. All types of vehicles can travel on these roads. The upazila has a total of 91 km of paved roads, 450 km of semi-paved roads, and 700 km of unpaved roads.

There is also a railway connection between Chattogram and this upazila, and currently, trains run from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar. The upazila has four railway stations:

1. Dohazari
2. Hashimpur
3. Khanhat
4. Kanchanabad

If the Dhaka-Cox's Bazar train stops at the Dohazari station, it will significantly improve the transportation system for people in southern Chattogram.

In terms of waterways, the upazila is connected by the Chankhali River, which links to Chattogram city, and the Sangu River, which connects to other upazilas in the region.

Religious place of worship

In Chandanaish Upazila, there are 275 mosques, 70 temples, and 11 Buddhist monasteries.

Some notable religious sites include:

• Hazrat Mahshum Fakir (R.A.) Mazaar – The shrine of Hazrat Mahshum Fakir (R.A.), known for its Gadali Mach (a type of fish associated with the shrine) and the nearby Shahi Jame Masjid.
• Kadom Rasul (PBUH) Mosque – Located in Bagicha Hat.
• Bahrampara (Gaibi Azan) Jame Mosque – Situated in Satbaria.
• Allama Mufti Muhammad Shafiur Rahman (R.A.) Jame Masjid – Located in Chandanaish Municipality.
• Shanti Bihar – A famous Buddhist monastery in Satbaria.

These religious sites reflect the rich spiritual diversity and cultural heritage of the region.

Economy

The economy of Chandanaish Upazila is primarily based on agriculture, fisheries, and livestock. The residents of this region primarily rely on farming for their livelihood, making agriculture a crucial sector for the local economy. Additionally, small and medium-sized businesses and government jobs also contribute to the income of the population.

Key Economic Sectors:

1. Agriculture:

   The farmers of Chandanaish mainly cultivate rice, pulses, vegetables, and fruits. Some of the popular agricultural products in the region include rice, lentils, soybeans, potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, bananas, jackfruit, and mangoes. Irrigation plays a vital role in crop production in this area.

2. Fisheries:

   Chandanaish has a long history of fish farming, owing to the presence of several rivers and water bodies in the region. Fish farming is an important industry, and many local fishermen earn their livelihood by catching and selling fish.

3. Livestock Farming:  

   Livestock farming is another significant source of income for the people of Chandanaish. Residents raise cattle, goats, sheep, and poultry, producing milk, meat, and eggs for consumption and sale.

4. Trade and Business:  

   Chandanaish Municipality and other large market areas in the upazila have thriving small and medium-sized businesses, including shops and local industries. Traders in the region deal in agricultural products, fish, fruits, and other essential goods.

5. Tourism:  

   Chandanaish has several religious and historical sites, such as shrines, temples, and monasteries, that have the potential to attract tourists. However, the tourism sector is still relatively underdeveloped.

6. Garments and Industry:  

   While the industrial sector in Chandanaish has not developed on a large scale, there are some small garment factories and cottage industries in the area, contributing to the local economy.

Challenges:

- Lack of modern technology in agriculture, issues with irrigation systems, and insufficient supply of fertilizers.

- Inadequate infrastructure in markets and poor marketing systems for agricultural products.

- Environmental challenges in fisheries, such as the impacts of climate change on fish farming.

Potential for Development:

- Improvement of modern agricultural techniques and irrigation systems.

- Adoption of environmentally friendly practices in fish farming.

- Development of the tourism sector and government initiatives to attract tourists to religious sites.

Significant Export Products:

Chandanaish is known for producing several key export items, including:

- Railway Sleepers

- Wooden Furniture

- Guava and Lemon

In the villages of Hashimpur and Kanchannagar in Chandanaish, there are around 2,000 guava orchards. These orchards produce a significant quantity of guavas every year. The guava grown in this region is highly valued, and the area is known for its quality produce.

Each morning, guava markets are held in various locations along the Chattogram-Cox's Bazar Highway, including Badamtal, Khanhat Railway Station, Bagicha Hat and Rowshan Hat. These markets attract traders from nearby areas for the sale of fresh guavas.

Additionally, vegetables produced in Dohazari contribute significantly to meeting the demand for fresh produce in Chattogram city.

These agricultural products, particularly guava, contribute to the local economy and play an important role in the region's trade and export activities.

In conclusion, while the economy of Chandanaish is diverse and predominantly agriculture-based, there is significant potential for growth and development through the adoption of modern techniques in farming, sustainable practices in fisheries, and the promotion of tourism.

Banks in Chandanaish Upazila

The banks in Chandanaish play a significant role in the local economy, helping facilitate trade, agriculture, and other business activities. Below is a list of banks and their branches in the upazila:

Serial No.	Bank Type	Bank Name	Branch	Banking Method	Address
01	State-owned Commercial Bank	Agrani Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	Dohazari, Chattogram
02	State-owned Commercial Bank	Janata Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	Dohazari, Chattogram
03	State-owned Commercial Bank	Rupali Bank	Khan Hat Branch	General	Haji Rinvi Plaza (2nd Floor), Khan Hat, Chandanaish
04	State-owned Commercial Bank	Sonali Bank	Chandanaish Branch	General	Chandanaish, Chattogram
05	State-owned Commercial Bank	Sonali Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	Dohazari, Chattogram
06	State-owned Commercial Bank	Sonali Bank	Maulvibazar Branch	General	Maulvibazar, Chattogram
07	State-owned Commercial Bank	Sonali Bank	Roushon Hat Branch	General	Chittagong-Cox's Bazar Highway, Rowshan Hat, Chandanaish
08	Specialized Bank	Basic Bank	Dohazari Branch	Specialized	Janakalyan Tower (1st Floor), Main Road, Dohazari, Chattogram
09	Private Commercial Bank	IFIC Bank	Dohazari Sub-branch	General	FG Habib Plaza, Rail Station Road, Dohazari, Chattogram
10	Private Commercial Bank	IFIC Bank	Roushon Hat Sub-branch	General	Rezia Nahar Complex, Kanchanabad, Chandanaish, Chattogram
11	Private Commercial Bank	United Commercial Bank	Chandanaish Branch	General	Siddique Bashura Shopping Complex, Ward No. 9, Chandanaish Municipality, Chattogram
12	Private Commercial Bank	United Commercial Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	AK Tower (1st Floor), Khasmahal Road, Dohazari, Chattogram
13	Private Commercial Bank	United Commercial Bank	Bailtoli Sub-branch	General	Yunus Market, Zafrabad, Bailtoli, Chandanaish, Chattogram
14	Private Commercial Bank	Eastern Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	Hazi Tower (1st Floor), Dohazari, Chattogram
15	Private Commercial Bank	NRB Commercial Bank	Gachbari Registration Sub-branch	General	Gachbari Land Registration Office, Gachhbaria, Chandanaish, Chattogram
16	Islamic Bank	Al-Arafah Islami Bank	Dohazari Branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Hazi Tower (1st Floor), Dohazari, Chattogram
17	Private Commercial Bank	Union Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	Shamsuddin Super Market (2nd Floor), Dohazari Station Road, Dohazari, Chattogram
18	Private Commercial Bank	Union Bank	Khanhat Sub-branch	General	Revine Haji Plaza (2nd Floor), Arakan Road, Khanhat, Gachbari, Chandanaish
19	Private Commercial Bank	Union Bank	Roushonhat Sub-branch	General	Al Noor Market (2nd Floor), Rowshan Hat, Arakan Road, Kanchanabad, Chandanaish
20	Islamic Bank	Islami Bank Bangladesh	Chandanaish Branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Haji Inu Mia Shopping Complex (2nd Floor), Khanhat, Chandanaish, Chattogram
21	Islamic Bank	Islami Bank Bangladesh	Dohazari Branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Hazi Tower, Arakan Road, Dohazari, Chattogram
22	Islamic Bank	Islami Bank Bangladesh	Roushonhat Sub-branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Amin Bazar Tower, Roushonhat, Kanchanabad, Chandanaish, Chattogram
23	Private Commercial Bank	EXIM Bank	Dohazari Branch	General	Hazi Tower (1st Floor), Arakan Road, Dohazari, Chattogram
24	Private Commercial Bank	Global Islami Bank	Dohazari Branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Sadeq Tower (Ground Floor), Dohazari, Chattogram
25	Private Commercial Bank	Global Islami Bank	Roushonhat Branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Choudhury Tower (BGCT Trust Adjacent), Kanchan Nagar, Chandanaish, Chattogram
26	Private Commercial Bank	Global Islami Bank	Chandanaish Sub-branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Haji Nasir Super Market, Chandanaish, Chattogram
27	Private Commercial Bank	First Security Islami Bank	Chandanaish Branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Siraj Market (Unit 2), Zafrabad, Bailtoli, Chandanaish, Chattogram
28	Private Commercial Bank	First Security Islami Bank	Chandanaish Sadar Sub-branch	Islamic Shariah-based	Haji Abdul Jabbar Market, Barkal Road (Near Chandanaish Post Office), Chandanaish, Chattogram

Chandanaish is well-served by various state-owned, private, and Islamic banks, which facilitate the financial needs of local businesses, agriculture, and trade. These banks play a crucial role in the economic development of the region, supporting both local industries and residents in managing their financial transactions. The list includes branches of banks like Agrani Bank, Janata Bank, Rupali Bank, Sonali Bank, IFIC Bank, Al-Arafah Islami Bank, Islami Bank Bangladesh, and many others that cater to the growing financial demands of the area.

Business and Trade

Chandanaish has a long-standing tradition and reputation in the field of business and trade. The region is known for its agricultural produce, which is sold both locally and across the country. Several products from this area play an important role in national trade and contribute to the local economy.

Key Areas of Business:

1. Fruit Trade:  

   - Guava** is one of the most significant export products of Chandanaish, with the guavas from Kanchannagar being particularly famous for their delicious taste and quality. These guavas are widely sold across the country.

   - Other fruits such as lemons, jackfruits, amla (Indian gooseberry), mangoes, and pineapples also contribute to the local economy, playing an important role in both domestic markets and local trade.

2. Vegetable Production:  

   - Chandanaish is known for its large-scale vegetable production, which meets the demand both in the local area and across the country. Vegetables grown here are essential for domestic consumption, and the region plays a key role in fulfilling the agricultural needs of surrounding areas.

3. Sand Mining:  

   - The Sangu River in Chandanaish provides a rich source of sand from its banks, which is an important raw material for construction and other industries. Sand mining is a major economic activity in this area.

4. Timber and Wood-Based Products:  

   - Hill timber from the local forests is an important resource, particularly for the furniture industry. The wood produced in this region is used extensively in making furniture, contributing to both local and national demand.

   - Additionally, bamboo plays a significant role in the region’s business, with bamboo mats and products being widely used and sold. Bamboo also finds use in the construction of traditional houses, particularly in roofing, where bamboo tiles (known as "bamboo chali") are used for roofing and are sold across the region.

5. Traditional Products:  

   - Hill grass (known locally as "Chhan") is another traditional product used for constructing roofs of houses, particularly among the rural poor. This product is in demand in various regions and is an important part of the local economy, providing livelihoods to many in the area.

Chandanaish’s business landscape is diverse, ranging from agriculture (fruits and vegetables) to natural resources (sand and timber) and traditional handicrafts (bamboo and grass products). The region plays a crucial role in meeting both local and national demands for agricultural products, timber, and construction materials. The area’s produce, particularly guava, is highly regarded, while traditional products like bamboo mats and hill grass also contribute significantly to the economy, especially for lower-income groups.

Rivers and Canals

Chandanaish Upazila is home to several important rivers and canals that contribute significantly to the local ecosystem, agriculture, and transportation.

1. Sangu River (Shankha River):

   - The Sangu River, also known as Shankha River, flows in a serpentine path from the northern to the southern part of the Chandanaish Upazila. This ancient and important river plays a vital role in the region's agriculture, as it supports irrigation systems, and its water is used for fishing and transportation.

   - The Sangu River is a major natural resource for the local population, providing freshwater for farming and other livelihoods. The river also contributes to the biodiversity of the region and is a key geographical feature of Chandanaish.

2. Chankhali River:

   - Another notable river in Chandanaish is the Chankhali River, which is also significant for local agriculture and livelihoods. Like the Sangu River, it plays a role in irrigation and supports fishing activities in the area.

3. Barumati Canal:

   - Barumati Canal is a well-known canal in the region. It serves as an important watercourse for irrigation purposes and local transportation. The canal helps in managing water resources for agriculture and plays a role in maintaining the ecosystem in the area.

Chandanaish Upazila is blessed with important rivers like the Sangu River and Chankhali River, as well as Barumati Canal, which serve essential functions in agriculture, transportation, and local livelihoods. These waterways are crucial to the region’s economy, supporting both the agricultural practices and the daily activities of the local population.

Digital Centers

In this upazila, there are 8 Digital Entrepreneur Centers. The following services are available at these digital centers:

1. Government Services:
   • Various government forms
   • Public examination results
   • Online university admissions
   • Online birth and death registration
   • VGF-VGD lists and citizen certificates
2. Livelihood-Based Information:
   • Information related to agriculture, health, education, law & human rights, tourism, non-agricultural ventures, etc.
   • Livelihood-related information is provided from the "National E-Information Portal" (www.infokosh.bangladesh.gov.bd). In addition to online services, offline versions of the portal (CD/DVD) are also available at these centers, allowing uninterrupted service even without an internet connection.
3. Commercial Services:
   • Mobile banking (Dutch Bangla, Trust Bank, BRAC Bank-Bkash)
   • Computer training
   • Photography
   • Internet browsing
   • Email services, composing, and visa application tracking
   • National and international video conferencing
   • Awareness video shows
   • Printing, scanning, photocopying, laminating
   • Flexiload, phone calls, etc.

Sports

Chandanaish Upazila in Chittagong has a notable reputation for sports. The region is known for a variety of traditional games and sports, such as:

• Boli Khela (traditional wrestling)
• Ox Fighting (bull fighting)
• Ha-du-du (a traditional tag game)
• Daria Banda (a local game)
• Gollashut (a running game)
• Kana Machi (a game involving a spinning top)
• Mall Juddha (wrestling)
• Barshi Baich (a fishing game)
• Danguli (a type of tug-of-war)

Additionally, during the monsoon season, local football competitions are held in various fields. Popular cricket tournaments are also organized with great enthusiasm. During the winter, badminton competitions featuring both local and national level players take place.

Moreover, under government initiatives, various sports events are organized during national celebrations, as well as numerous institutional-based annual sports competitions, which are held in the upazila's town center.

Entertainment

Chandanaish Upazila has a rich tradition in entertainment, which has been preserved for centuries. Various forms of entertainment, particularly during different seasons, are an important part of the local culture. These include:

• Melas (fairs)
• Stage dramas
• Circus performances
• Puppet shows
• Mobile cinema screenings
• Swing rides (Nagordola)

In addition to these, Kobigan (poetry recitations), Jarigan, and Kirtan (traditional devotional songs) continue to be widely appreciated. Other traditional competitions such as boat races, horse races, cockfighting, and kite flying are also organized during festive seasons.

Moreover, during the onset of winter, various theatre troupes organize Jatra Pala (traditional folk theatre performances) in the area.

The region has a long history of peaceful coexistence among various communities, including Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and indigenous groups (such as the Tripura, Marma, and Khyang people). This harmony has fostered a strong sense of ethnic unity and cultural integration, which has been maintained over time. People of all castes, religions, and ethnicities share a deep bond, which is reflected in the social, cultural, and political relationships that thrive here.

Markets and Fairs

Chandanaish Upazila is home to numerous traditional markets and fairs.

Notable Markets and Fairs:

1. Dhamair Hat – Barma, Chandanaish
2. Chandanaish Kacha Bazaar – Chandanaish Municipality
3. Bagicha Hat – Chandanaish Municipality
4. Khan Hat – Gachbaria, Chandanaish Municipality
5. Abdul Bari Hat – Chandanaish Municipality
6. Noya Hat – Chandanaish Municipality
7. Baruni Mela – Gachbaria, Chandanaish Municipality
8. Saidadabad Railway Wholesale Guava Market – Hashimpur
9. Badamtal Kacha Bazaar – Kanchanabad
10. Roushon Hat – Kanchanabad
11. Monshup Hat – Joara
12. Dohazari Railway Wholesale Kacha Bazaar – Dohazari Municipality
13. Dewan Hat – Satbaria
14. Najir Hat – Satbaria
15. Boinyar Hat – Satbaria
16. Hafez Saheb's Urs – Satbaria
17. Moulvibazar – Barkal
18. Bangla Bazaar – Barma, Barkal
19. Yunus Market – Baitali
20. Khoda Hat – Baitali
21. Ashraf Muhuri Hat – Satbaria
22. Kalirhat – Barma
23. Jamtal Bazaar – Satbaria
24. Dhopachhari Bazaar – Dhopachhari
25. Badalfakir Hat – Joara

These markets and fairs serve as essential hubs for local trade and commerce, providing a variety of goods, produce, and cultural experiences. Many of these markets are traditional, often operating for generations, and some are held periodically, such as the Baruni Mela (a large fair) and other seasonal gatherings.

Tourist Attractions

Chandanaish Upazila is home to several significant historical, religious, and natural landmarks. These include:

1. Arif Shah Para Shahi Jame Masjid
2. Shuklambar Dighi – 5th Barma
3. Hazrat Mamun Khalifa (R.A.) Shahi Jame Masjid – Kanai Madari, 4th Barkal Union
4. BGC Trust University Bangladesh Lake & BGC Vidyanagar Area
5. Chagachar Khan Masjid
6. Dudhpukuria-Dhopachhari Wildlife Sanctuary
7. Khan Dighi
8. Tea Gardens, Kanchanabad
9. Guava Gardens, Kanchanabad
10. Khan Jame Masjid
11. Hazrat Bhui Khaja Jame Masjid
12. Bagichahat Kadam Rasul (PBUH) Sharif
13. Jamirjuri Martyrs' Memorial
14. Bahrampur Para Gaibi Azan Jame Masjid
15. Hazari Dighi
16. Satbaria Hafiz Nagar Darbar Sharif
17. Satbaria Shanti Bihar
18. Thakur Dighi, Barma
19. Baitali Khodar Hat Bridge
20. Various spots along the Sangu River, Baitali
21. Shah Mahchum Fakir's Mausoleum and Pond
22. Purb Satbaria Ratnakur Bihar
23. Buri Kali Mandir, Barma
24. Kanchannagar Shah Sufi Ali Ullah Shah Darbar Sharif

These sites are a blend of cultural, religious, and natural attractions, making Chandanaish a noteworthy destination for both spiritual tourism and nature lovers. The wildlife sanctuary, tea gardens, and historical mosques and shrines provide a glimpse into the area's diverse heritage and natural beauty.

Newspapers and Magazines

Quarterly:

• Aalokito Dohazari

Monthly:

• Aalokito Chandanaish

Others:

• Barumati
• Ajker Chandanaish
• Chandanaish Darpan
• Sheidin-er Chandanaish
• Shankha Chil
• Darpan
• Shankhteeir

Annual Magazine:

• Shikhred Shondhane – Published by the Bornomala Parishad, Dohazari

These publications contribute to the local culture, news, and history of Chandanaish and surrounding areas, providing insights into community events, local issues, and cultural heritage.

Historical Events

In 1666, the Mughal army took control of the northern region of Chattogram. Later, under the leadership of Murtaza Khan, the Mughal forces crossed the Karnaphuli River and positioned themselves on the northern bank of the Shankha River. The responsibility of guarding the area’s borders was assigned to two prominent officials, Adu Khan and Lakhan Singh, along with two Hazari Mansabdars. It is said that the area was named Dohazari after these two Hazari Mansabdars.

Subsequently, two forts were constructed in Dohazari. During the British colonial period, an airbase was also built in Dohazari.

In 1971, towards the end of the Bangladesh Liberation War, a fierce battle took place in Dohazari between the Pakistani army and the freedom fighters. The Pakistani forces were defeated in this battle. During the conflict, the Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra (Independent Bangladesh Radio Station) was relocated from Chattogram city to Dohazari. This event played a significant role in the liberation struggle and the eventual independence of Bangladesh.

Liberation War Memorials

Execution Grounds (Badhyabhumi): 2 locations

Notable Personalities

1. Oli Ahmed (March 13, 1939 – ) – A freedom fighter awarded the "Bir Bikrom" title, politician, and former Minister of Communications.
2. Afsar Uddin Ahmed – Former Member of Parliament.
3. Abdul Karim – A freedom fighter awarded the "Bir Bikrom" title.
4. Nazir Krishna Chandra Chowdhury – Zamindar, educationist, social reformer, and philanthropist.
5. Abul Kasem (June 28, 1920 – March 11, 1991) – Language movement activist, educator, politician, writer, social worker, and renowned academic. He was a founder of the Tamaddun Majlish and Bangla College.
6. Ahmed Sofa (June 30, 1943 – July 28, 2001) – Writer, author, novelist, poet, philosopher, and intellectual.
7. Shamsul Arefin (November 20, 1977 – ) – Folk researcher, lyricist, and poet.
8. Nazrul Islam Chowdhury (February 1, 1952 – ) – Politician and former Minister of State for Labour and Employment.
9. Nurul Islam (April 1, 1928 – January 24, 2013) – A renowned physician, academic, and national professor, widely respected for his contributions to medicine and teaching.
10. Moniruzzaman Islamabadi (1875 – 1950) – Islamic thinker, nationalist movement activist, and journalist.
11. Jatindramohan Sengupta (February 22, 1885 – July 23, 1933) – Leading Congress leader, politician, and nationalist lawyer.
12. Jatramohan Sengupta (July 30, 1850 – November 2, 1919) – Bengali lawyer, politician, and social activist. His son, Deshpriya Jatindramohan Sengupta, was also a prominent leader.
13. Hossain Zillur Rahman (July 26, 1951 – ) – Economist and former adviser to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh.
14. Mohammad Fakhruddin (March 1, 1949 – May 26, 2011) – A renowned Islamic scholar, hadith expert, and educator, known across Bangladesh as Allama Fakhruddin. He served as the principal of Madrasa-e-Alia Sylhet and was a former Hadith scholar at Madrasa-e-Alia Dhaka.
15. Shame Bangla Maulana Ala Uddin – Shaykhul Hadith (Chief of Hadith Studies).

Parliamentary Seat

• Parliamentary Seat: 291, Chattogram-14
• Electoral Area: Chandanaish Upazila and the Khagaria, Keochia, Kaliaish, Dharmapur, Bajalia, and Puranghar unions of Satkania Upazila
• Member of Parliament: Nazrul Islam Chowdhury
• Political Party: Bangladesh Awami League

List of Members of Parliament (MPs)

Serial No.	Election Year	Elected Member of Parliament	Political Party
1st	1973	Dr. B.M. Faizur Rahman	First elected member of Bangladesh National Assembly
2nd	1979	Dr. Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram	Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
3rd	1986	Engineer Afsar Uddin Ahmed	Jatiya Party (JP)
4th	1988	Engineer Afsar Uddin Ahmed	Jatiya Party (JP)
5th	1991	Dr. Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram	Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
6th	1996 (February)	Dr. Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram	Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
7th	1996 (June)	Mrs. Momtaz Begum	Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
8th	2001	Dr. Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram	Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)
9th	2008	Dr. Oli Ahmed Bir Bikram	Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)
10th	2014	Nazrul Islam Chowdhury	Bangladesh Awami League (AL)
11th	2018	Nazrul Islam Chowdhury	Bangladesh Awami League (AL)
12th	2024	Nazrul Islam Chowdhury	Bangladesh Awami League (AL)

Upazila Administration and Chairpersons

Upazila Executive Officer

Serial No.	Title	Name
01	Upazila Executive Officer	Mohammad Rajib Hossain

List of Upazila Chairpersons

Serial No.	Name of Upazila Chairman	Tenure
01	Barrister Ahmedul Haque	1985-1990
02	Mohammad Kasem	1990-1991
03	Mohammad Abdul Jobbar Chowdhury	2009–Present
04	Alhaj Jasim Uddin Chowdhury

See also

• Upazilas of Bangladesh
• Districts of Bangladesh
• Divisions of Bangladesh