You Need To Know About This Remarkable Thesis On Mohini Mill’s Revitalization

Leading University presented a Thesis On Mohini Mill’s Revitalization
Project Title: Abandoned to Avant-Garde: Mohini Mill Revitalized
Location: Mill Para, Kushtia, Khulna Bangladesh
Site Area: 19.79 acres
Student Name: Rezwan Ahmed Sami
Studio: X
Studio Guide: Ar. Sayed Moshin Ali , Ar. Arpon Shil, Ar. Azima Tabassum
Year: 2024
University: Leading University

Project Brief:

The Mohini Mill, established in 1908, was the largest textile industrial park in India, producing high-quality fabrics. It was founded through the efforts of Mohini Mohon Chakraborty, poet Rabindranath Tagore, Jogot Kishore Chowdhury, and Chomon Lal on 100 acre of land. Nationalized by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1972 for regional economic freedom, it operated successfully until 1982. Corruption and conspiracies led to its closure on February 5, 1982, affecting 3,000 workers.

Attempts to reopen succeeded temporarily under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s order in 2009, but persistent issues led to its final closure and sale to the private sector in April 2011. The plant is now closed and decommissioned.
Area: 19.79 Acres.
Client: Ministry of Textiles & Jute, Bangladesh.
Finance By: Kushtia Municipality & Bangladesh Government.

Vision:

My vision is to transform the abandoned Mohini Mill into a vibrant hub of culture and innovation  that celebrates its rich industrial heritage while fostering creativity, community engagement and economic growth. But one can’t deny the historical significance of Mohini Mill. Among them contribution towards the Swadesi movement was a remarkable one. Through adaptive reuse, I also aim to preserve the factory’s historical significance, support local artisans and emerging artists, and create a vibrant space for cultural exchange, education and sustainable development.

Areas of Research: Mohini Mill’s Revitalization

Adaptive reuse of abandoned textile mills is an exciting topic to work that involves repurposing historic industrial buildings for new uses. This field intersects with architecture, urban planning, environmental sustainability and social development. To enhance preservation practice of industrial heritage buildings, this thesis attempts to investigate and to present applicable patterns of reuse of old factory buildings.

With the intention to return the former architectural glory and to activate new function, it has been necessary to implement set of urban architectural intervention in accordance with the  current legislation in the field of protection of cultural heritage, includes:
Historical Preservation: Documenting and preserving the historical and architectural significance of weaving mills.
Adaptive Design Strategies: Exploring innovative design approaches to transform industrial spaces into functional areas such as residential lofts, commercial spaces, cultural centres, or educational facilities.
Material Reuse: Using reclaimed materials from the original structure to reduce waste and preserve historical character.
Community Development: Assessing the social impact of repurposing abandoned mills on local communities, including job creation, housing opportunities, and cultural enrichment.

Jury comments: Abandoned to Avant-Garde: Mohini Mill’s Revitalization

There were 3 external juror form SUST. As per the jurors,
“Your project, “Abandoned to Avant-Garde: Mohini Mill Revitalized”, is a thoughtful and inspiring approach to adaptive reuse. I appreciate how you honor the rich industrial and historical significance of Mohini Mill while proposing a vibrant, community-focused future. Your vision to create a hub for culture, education, and sustainable development shows a deep understanding of both architectural preservation and modern urban needs.

The connection to the Swadeshi movement and the emphasis on supporting local artisans add meaningful layers to your concept. Your sensitive balance between heritage conservation and contemporary innovation is impressive. As an experienced architect, I would recommend developing a detailed phasing plan for the revitalization to ensure smooth integration of new functions while respecting the site’s historic fabric. Best of luck with your education and future career. Your passion for history and community-driven architecture is truly commendable!”

CONTACT DETAILS
Name: Rezwan Ahmed Sami
Address : Borhanbag R/A, East Shibganj, Sylhet
Phone No : 01817321380
E-mail : ahmedsami099@gmail.com
Social media: https://www.facebook.com/rahmedsami1