St. Nicholas Church in Kaliganj: A Testament to Timeless Heritage

St. Nicholas Church, nestled in the heart of the Nagori Union of Kaliganj Upazila in Gazipur district, stands as one of Bangladesh's ancient churches. According to historical records, the church was initially built in 1663 by Portuguese priests using timber and bricks. By 1680, it had been transformed into a robust, permanent structure, albeit later rebuilt with mud and bricks around the early 1800s, after the original building was damaged in a fire.

From the late 16th century to the first half of the 17th century, the Portuguese contributed significantly to business and trade, religious propagation, agricultural activities, and slave trade in Bengal.

Among the several locations in Bangladesh where the Portuguese had established their settlements, Nagori was one of the prominent ones. Surrounding this Catholic church, a religious community developed in the region.

The original church building comprises a small veranda and a room inside, accessible through three northern doors. The church's roof is supported by iron-made columns adorned with frames to withstand the weight of the church's roof.

Despite several additional doors on the east and west sides, they are not in use. The luminous rays filtering through the vibrant stained glass windows playfully interact with the light and air within.

The church in Nagori stands witness to significant historical milestones in Bengali publications. It was here that the first Bengali Bible was translated and published. Even the first bilingual dictionary and printed book in Bengali were also published from this church. Padre Manuel da Assumpção, known as the author of the first grammar and dictionary in Bengali, was a priest in this church and had penned these books here.

Adjacent to the ancient church, a grand new church was constructed in 2008. The facade of this colossal church is incomparable. Facing this new structure, a full-sized statue of Jesus Christ is installed. The architecture of this statue is unique and extraordinary.

Just outside Nagori is Panjora Gram, where the Panjora Chapel of Sadhu Antony stands (a small prayer room, not where priests usually reside). The chapel, built in 1906, displays extraordinary craftsmanship in its interior and exterior design.

The beautifully crafted colorful glass paneled windows enhance the interior's beauty, making the chapel an attraction for pilgrims and believers, not only Christians but also people of other faiths, who gather here every February on the first Friday for Sadhu Antony's pilgrimage.

The Nagori Church and its activities have left an indelible mark on the religious and historical landscape of this region, resonating far beyond the beliefs of Christians in Bangladesh, attracting people of various faiths and beliefs to the pilgrimage of Sadhu Antony at Panjora.

The video displayed below presents a recent Christmas carol performance. This captivating rendition showcases a group of talented individuals who have come together to perform and celebrate the spirit of Christmas. The performers, through their melodious voices and synchronized presentation, bring alive the essence of the festive season, spreading joy and warmth to the audience. The harmonious blend of voices, coupled with the festive decorations and the cheerful ambiance, creates an immersive and heartwarming experience for those watching. The video encapsulates the festive fervor, sharing the joyous essence of Christmas with viewers, invoking a sense of celebration and unity.