2019

Publisher homepage: www.universepg.com, ISSN: 2663-7820 (Online) & 2663-7812 (Print)

https://doi.org/10.34104/cjbis.024.01210128

http://www.universepg.com/journal/cjbis

Public Archaeology in Bangladesh: Saving Our Past for the Future

Generation
Rashedul Alam Prodip1* and Selina Begum2
1
Archives Section, Bangladesh National Museum, Shahbag, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh; and 2Audio-Visual Section,
Bangladesh National Museum, Shahbag, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh.
*Correspondence: [email protected] (Rashedul Alam Prodip, Assistant Keeper (O.M), Head of ICT & Archives
Section, Bangladesh National Museum, Shahbag, Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh).

ABSTRACT
Public archaeology in Bangladesh plays a crucial role in preserving the country's rich cultural heritage for
future generations. Conserving these heritage structures not only preserves cultural identity, but can also
promote intergenerational equity by safeguarding Bangladesh's invaluable cultural aspects. Recognizing the
urgent need to protect a wide range of built cultural heritage, the government of Bangladesh must take
proactive steps to engage the public and implement sustainable preservation initiatives. Engaging local
communities in the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage is a vital aspect of public archaeology.
Community participation not only fosters a sense of ownership and pride but also ensures the long-term
sustainability of heritage. This journal article explores the field of public archaeology in Bangladesh, focusing
on the importance of community involvement and the utilization of innovative technologies. Through a
comprehensive analysis of community archaeology and community museology initiatives, this study highlights
the significance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations. Furthermore, it discusses the potential of
virtual museums and eBooks in enhancing public engagement and accessibility to archaeological knowledge. It
underscores the importance of public archaeology and community museology in Bangladesh as effective means
to involve the broader population in archaeological endeavors, enhance awareness of its significance, and
promote active participation. The authors emphasize the common people's role as guardians of local
archaeological heritage, emphasizing the imperative for researchers to acknowledge the value of safeguarding
Bangladesh's culturally rich history.

Keywords: Public archaeology, Community archaeology, Museology, Virtual museum, and eBook.

INTRODUCTION: Community archaeology or public archaeology,

The use of the term ‘public archaeology’ first occurred involves the communication of information unearthed
in the United States (Schadla-Hall 1999, 147) when in academic archaeology to individuals outside the
McGimsey published his book Public Archeology in profession. This dissemination can occur through
1972, ap-pealing for the preservation of archaeological various means such as personal visits, the Internet,
heritage for the sake of the “public right to know- literature, programs, lectures, exhibits, archaeology
ledge” (McGimsey 1972, 5). fairs, or even by opening up excavation sites to the
public. The foundation of community archaeology
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rests on the belief that a more comprehensive Commencement of a new premise

accepting of the past is attainable when a variety of The impulse for the expansion of new theoretical
voices contribute to its interpretation. At its core, the perspectives in archaeology has primarily originated
term 'community' refers to the assemblage of from external influences, bringing the discipline into
individuals residing in the proximity of the area under closer alignment with broader discussions in social
investigation. Community groups, descendants, elders, theory. Conversely, archaeological logic and explan-
and local historians are just some of the many atory structures have predominantly revolved around
interested parties who work side-by-side archaeo- hypothesis-based deductive reasoning, often posing a
logists in exploring the past. Archaeologists frequently challenge for laypeople to comprehend. Public
look to local residents for historical information, for archaeology emerges as a means to provide a sustain-
assistance in the actual excavation of a site, or for able role for the community, transforming them from
research partnerships4. passive observers into active participants. In
Bangladesh, where archaeology and its concepts have
The public serves as spectators of the work carried out not reached a widespread understanding among the
by archaeologists, and public archaeology strives to masses, the practice of public archaeology becomes
safeguard archaeological sites by educating and particularly significant. Public archaeology frequently
instilling in the public a deep appreciation for the sets a deliberate goal to promote the conservation of
significance of archaeological heritage. However, it archaeological ruins and, seeks ongoing government
transcends mere outreach initiatives; community support for diggings and protection studies.
archaeology emerges as the most effective means to Archaeological excavations have not only impacted
ensure the enduring protection of our cultural heritages the lives of nearby communities but have also been
and sites. influenced by them. The extensive information and
METHODOLOGY: knowledge generated by archaeological research have
This article is based on primary (field experience) and not only added to shaping public understanding to
secondary (literature) method. The research methods form the basis of collective identities. Even so, there
employed in this study, including qualitative inter- was a long period of time when archaeologists ignored
views, participant observation, and document analysis the connections and seemed to consider public
at Wari-Bateswar, Vikrampur, Bangladesh National archaeology as irrelevant to the main goal of studying
Museum. Through this case study, it is reflected that the past. Public archaeology began in the 1970s–
Bangladesh needs ethical considerations in conducting 1980s, and later in the 90s and early 21st century, it
research in the context of public archaeology, ensuring sought to redress this omission. Today community
the protection of cultural heritage and the rights of the archaeology takes many different forms and increa-
community. singly has more projects that share basic principles
though they differ in definition or operate outside
Research objectives conventional archaeological contexts.
This paper's objective is to comprehend the impact of
archaeological advancement changes and implications Communities Avoiding essentialism is, therefore, very
of the community archaeology a developing country, critical in defining communities as this may lead to the
like Bangladesh. Some detailed aims include: misuse of modern interpretations that seem universal
and permanent but are rather immediate constructs
 To inspect the impact of archaeological advance- within a specified social set ups. In community
ment of public archaeological activities in archaeology, one can challenge the idea of a
Bangladesh. community as a single entity by bringing in dissenting
 To examine the approaches and strategies those views that draw attention to variations or hetero-
have an impact on achieving the goal. geneity where possible. This recognition opens up
 To identify the limitations or challenges in debates about a people or group without imposing on
practicing. them any notion of being homogenous and it includes
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such diverse intersecting identity categories as class, revive a sense of vanity in community heritage.
gender, religion, economic status, ethnicity and Community museology is emerging from new trends
sexuality. The concept based on location serves as a in the social sciences and the insistence of local
valuable starting point for exploring the relationship communities on actively participating in the under-
between a current population and a particular standing of their past. Recognizing its importance,
archaeological site. This approach accommodates the community museology should be viewed as an integral
multiple identities within a community without component of the overarching framework for
resorting to divisive categorizations. However, in successful public/community archaeology.
certain instances, location naturally defines roots,
Perceptions in Bangladesh
especially when communities opt to emphasize a
Approximately a millennium ago, various dynasties
traced heritage and ancestry.
began settling in the Greater Bengal region, leaving
Community museology behind over 400 sites, each with a unique narrative.
The involvement of source communities in archaeo- Extensive literature exists on these sites, but the local
logical projects extends beyond the completion of stories, myths, and tales provide an immediate glimpse
excavations, contrary to community archaeology. into that historical era. These narratives hold
Community archaeology strives for collaboration significant space in the local people's psyche, fostering
throughout all steps of research, playing a crucial role a sense of concern and ownership, leading them to
in presenting research results. This connection care for these locations as cherished assets. Local
underscores the significant relationship between public myths play a crucial role in shaping this perspective.
archaeology and community museology. Modern When archaeologists tries to investigate fields, the
museums are no longer considered neutral spaces. It apprehensive local residents treat them with great
acknowledges the national, moral, historical, and caution. The positive aspect of this cautious approach
ethical impacts that exhibitions can have on local is the protection it affords to these sites, guarding them
communities in terms of accessibility, interpretation, against potential harm. The community actively strives
and ownership. Museums are powerful mediators for to prevent looting by confronting individuals
social modification, actively contributing to the attempting to unlawfully smuggle, and they also raise
construction of knowledge about the past, present and awareness among those residing near archaeological
future. The heritage holder have own perspective on sites about the risks of looting. Many established
exhibition creation. This goes beyond text wording or concepts within archaeology have been tested and
object selections, extending to decisions about the supplanted by this new approach. Common public
exhibition's subjects, themes, spatial organization, outreach methods involve disseminating press releases
decoration, and layout. Collaborative decision-making and encouraging educational trips to excavation sites
ensures that the constructed knowledge aligns with the led by professional archaeologists. Local heritage
meaning communities aim to convey, prioritizing their awareness aims to boost civic and individual
perspectives over those of the designer or author. The arrogance through improved public demonstrations of
discipline can be advanced by involving source archaeological sites within excavation projects.
communities in lighting options, display types, object
As archaeologists increasingly recognize the signifi-
management, and even museum emblems so that
cance of inclusivity and community engagement in
different interpretations and culturally responsive
establishing the modern-day relevance of their work,
displays can be achieved. As an example, Bangladesh
there has been a shift towards more participatory and
National Museum established a logo at 1983 but by
collaborative approaches to develop operative
involving source communities, it revised its emblem at
strategies for public appearance and interpretation.
2024.
Over the past few decades, there has been a dynamic
Access to community objects as a bridge between past evolution in standards and philosophy within
and present, not only facilitate the retelling of local community archaeology and heritage interpretation. A
inheritance but also reinforce ideas of identity and notable example is the Wari-Bateswar site in
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Narshingdi, where popular activities, including school lving local communities creates a sense of guardian-
campaigns and open-air museum displays, have ship, making them proactive in protecting these sites
generated a significant surge in public interest, from potential harm.
yielding positive outcomes. Initially, archaeologists
Cultural Identity and Pride
conducting the first archaeological inquiries faced
Community archaeology allows communities to
challenges, with villagers perceiving them as treasure
connect with their roots, promoting a sense of cultural
hunters or oil miners. However, as these professionals
identity. Rediscovering and showcasing local histories
integrated themselves into the exploration process,
can instill pride in the community, fostering a deeper
local residents developed an interest in it.
connection with their heritage.
Consequently, the people of Wari-Bateswar now
recognize these ruins as their own and have a sense of Educational Opportunities
responsibility for their preservation. Similar positive Community archaeology initiatives provide educa-
experiences have been observed at the Vikrampura tional opportunities for local residents. This can
excavation site. include workshops, training programs, and school
outreach, contributing to a broader understanding of
Significance to execute public archaeology in
archaeology and its significance.
Bangladesh
Preservation of Cultural Heritage Tourism and Economic Development
Bangladesh has a rich archaeological history with By actively involving communities in archaeological
numerous ancient sites and artifacts. Community efforts, there is potential for developing cultural
archaeology helps raise awareness and fosters a sense tourism. This, in turn, can contribute to local economic
of responsibility among local communities for preser- development through increased tourism-related
vation of their cultural heritage (Fairooz et al., 2024). activities.

Active Community Involvement Combating Misconceptions

Engaging local communities in archaeology turns In some cases, communities may hold misconceptions
them from passive observers into active participants. about archaeological activities. Community archaeo-
This involvement not only educates the community logy allows for transparent communication and
about their history but also instills a sense of dispelling myths, fostering a positive relationship
ownership and pride in their cultural legacy. between archaeologists and the local population.
Community archaeology in Bangladesh is essential for
Diverse Perspectives fostering a collaborative and mutually beneficial
Community archaeology encourages the inclusion of relationship between archaeologists and local
diverse voices in the understanding of the past. This communities. It not only contributes to the preser-
approach ensures a more comprehensive under- vation of cultural heritage but also promotes
standing of historical events and cultural practices by education, inclusivity, and a shared sense of pride in
considering the perspectives of different community the nation's rich history. Eventually, adopting new
members. technologies can significantly enhance community
Addressing Lack of Understanding archaeology initiatives within museums, fostering
Archaeology, as a discipline, may not be well- increased engagement and participation. Here are
understood by the general public in Bangladesh. some technologies that could be leveraged for this
Community archaeology serves as a bridge to fill this purpose:
gap, making archaeological concepts more accessible Virtual museum
and relevant to the local population. Implementing VR and AR experiences in museums
Mitigating Potential Threats can transport visitors to archaeological sites or give
Many archaeological sites face threats such as looting, experience to know more about artifacts virtually. This
unauthorized excavations, and encroachment. Invo- immersive technology allows community members to
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explore historical locations and artifacts in a dynamic has his very own virtual gallery web application and it
and engaging manner. Bangladesh National Museum is emerging.

Fig. 1: Virtual museum.

Mobile Apps perspectives and fostering a sense of ownership among

Developing mobile applications that provide inter- community members.
active guides to archaeological exhibits can enhance
Online Collaboration Platforms
the visitor experience. These apps can offer detailed
Implementing online platforms for collaborative
information, multimedia content, and even augmented
archaeology projects enables community members to
reality features, making the learning process more
actively participate in research and documentation.
interactive and accessible. Bangladesh National
These platforms can facilitate the sharing of know-
Museum has facilities of a Heritage Hub Mobile App
ledge, artifacts, and personal stories related to local
for Intangible Cultural Heritage documentation/
history.
inventory. In future, a mobile app will be found for
Audio-guide facility. 3D Printing
Introducing 3D printing technology allows museums
to create replicas of archaeological artifacts. These
replicas can be availed by visitors, providing a tactile
experience and a deeper connection to the past.

Social Media Integration

Leveraging social media platforms can enhance
community outreach. Museums can use social media
for live streaming events, virtual tours, and interactive
Q&A sessions, fostering a broader online community
interested in archaeology.

Digital Archives and Databases

Developing comprehensive digital archives and
Fig. 2: Mobile app of museum.
databases enables communities to access historical
Digital Storytelling Platforms records, photographs, and documents related to
Utilizing digital storytelling platforms allows com- archaeological sites. This empowers individuals to
munities to share their own narratives related to contribute their own knowledge and memories to the
archaeological sites. This user-generated content can digital repository. Archiving of rare books like
be integrated into museum exhibits, providing diverse Bangladesh National Museum can be an example.

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Fig. 3: Archiving of rare books of museum.

GIS Technology
Involving New Generation
Geographic Information System (GIS) technology can
Engaging the upcoming generation enables the
be employed to create interactive maps showcasing
formation of a society inclined towards archaeology,
archaeological sites.
contributing significantly to the preservation of our
Crowdsourcing Platforms cultural heritage and archaeological discoveries. In
Implementing crowdsourcing platforms encourages Bangladesh, incorporating archaeology into the school
community involvement in tasks such as cataloging and college curricula can serve as a means to inspire a
artifacts, transcribing historical documents, or deeper appreciation and understanding of archaeology
identifying archaeological features. This collaborative among the younger generation.
approach fosters a sense of shared responsibility.
Involving Mass Media
Podcasts and Webinars Engaging mass media is instrumental in fostering
Creating podcasts and hosting webinars on archaeo- community archaeology by leveraging its reach and
logy topics can be an operative way to disseminate influence. By integrating mass media into community
information and engage the community. These digital archaeology initiatives, it becomes possible to reach a
formats provide flexibility for individuals to access wider audience, inspire public interest, and actively
content at their convenience. By taking on these involve diverse communities in the preservation and
technologies, museums can transform community exploration of their archaeological heritage. Here are
archaeology into a dynamic and inclusive experience, several ways in which mass media can be involved in
adopting a deeper connection between the public and promoting community archaeology:
heritage within their localities.
News Coverage
Community Interpretation Encourage media outlets to cover local archaeological
Numerous archaeologists contend that integrating initiatives, discoveries and archaeological projects.
local knowledge is crucial for the continued existence Regular news updates can generate public interest and
of archaeology as an academic field. The extent of awareness.
interpretive influence that communities wield in
Documentary Productions
archaeological endeavors ranges from utilizing
Collaborate with media professionals to produce
interpretations obtained through consultations and
documentaries or series that highlight community
talks to academic publications crafted by community
archaeology projects, showcase local heritage, and
members, addressing research questions identified
involve community members in storytelling.
within the community.
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Advertisements and Public Service Announcements Contests and Challenges

(PSAs) Organize media-supported contests or challenges
Create targeted advertisements and PSAs that educate related to community archaeology, encouraging public
the public about the significance of community participation and fostering a sense of pride in local
archaeology, upcoming events, and how individuals heritage.
can actively participate.
Public Engagement Events
Interviews and Talk Shows Promote community archaeology through media
Arrange interviews with archaeologists, community coverage of public engagement events, such as
leaders, and project participants on talk shows to archaeological fairs, exhibitions, and heritage walks.
discuss the significance of conserving local heritage Local Tourism
through community archaeology. Viable tourism approach can be developed by
engaging the local community in archaeological
Social Media Campaigns
Utilize social media platforms for targeted campaigns, endeavors. If they comprehend the significance of the
sharing engaging content, live updates, and multi- heritage and its characteristics, they are likely to
media materials related to community archaeology advocate for its preservation, recognizing the potential
projects. benefits that arise from implementing a tourism
strategy. This livelihood opportunity could create a
Educational Programs new phase of development.
Develop educational programs in collaboration with
Limitations and Challenges of Public Archaeology
media outlets to air segments or shows that explain
in Bangladesh
archaeological processes, share historical insights, and
Public archaeology in Bangladesh faces significant
promote community involvement.
limitations and challenges that hinder its progress and
Interactive Websites and Apps impact. One of the primary obstacles is the lack of
Create interactive websites or apps in partnership with adequate funding and resources allocated to archaeo-
media organizations to provide additional resources, logical research and preservation efforts. The govern-
virtual tours, and educational materials related to ment's investment in this field remains relatively low,
community archaeology. making it difficult for archaeologists to conduct
extensive excavations, analysis, and public outreach
Live Streaming Events programs. Another major challenge is the limited
Live stream community archaeology events, work- awareness and appreciation of the importance of
shops, and excavations to allow a broader audience to archaeology among the general public. Many
participate virtually and interact with experts in real- Bangladeshis are unaware of the rich cultural heritage
time. that lies beneath the surface, and the potential benefits
that public archaeology can bring to their com-
Feature Articles and Columns
Collaborate with print media to publish feature articles munities. This lack of public engagement and support
and regular columns that delve into the local history, can make it challenging to garner the necessary
ongoing archaeological projects, and the role of the support for archaeological projects. Furthermore, the
community in preserving heritage. lack of effective legal frameworks and enforcement
mechanisms to protect archaeological sites and
Partnerships with Media Outlets artifacts is a significant concern. Illegal looting and the
Forge partnerships with television channels, radio destruction of historical sites are ongoing problems
stations, newspapers, and online media to ensure that require stronger legislation and enforcement to
sustained coverage and promotion of community address. Lastly, the limited availability of trained
archaeology initiatives. professionals in the field of archaeology, as well as the
lack of specialized facilities and equipment, hinders

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the advancement of public archaeology in Bangladesh. that if one could engage a plurality of stakeholders
Investing in the development of archaeological such as skilled heritage professionals, traditional
education and infrastructure is crucial for overcoming craftsmen and women, diverse community members’
these limitations and fostering a thriving public engagement, then the possibility of preserving living
archaeology landscape in the country. heritage sites can be realized effectively. Heritage is a
catalyst for economic prosperity, civic pride and
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: education. It is this which distinguishes us from other
Archaeology’s public outreach and engagement need nations and makes Bangladesh unique in the true
to be comprehensive, purposeful and a part of our sense. Another significant angle with regard to
scientific research design in all projects from the heritage and archaeological management lies in appre-
beginning, must also grapple with several ethical ciating different legislative protection measures aimed
matters related to developing public archaeology at securing our cultural backgrounds for generations
projects. These include minimizing looting and unborn.
vandalism by providing incentives to local people who
live near sites; discouraging international trade in ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:
antiquities; addressing privacy concerns resulting from We would like to extend sincere thanks and appre-
working with communities that have been under ciation to all the participants for their invaluable
surveillance; Presenting data that tells about the contributions to this study.
secular or religious life of a particular group might be
seen as offensive if members of such a group do not CONFLICTS OF INTEREST:
actively participate in research. Technological The author(s) declares no conflicts of interest
advancement, increased access to vast amounts of REFERENCES:
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Citation: Prodip RA., and Begum S. (2024). Public archaeology in Bangladesh: saving our past for the future
generation, Can. J. Bus. Inf. Stud., 6(4), 121-128. https://doi.org/10.34104/cjbis.024.01210128

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