The word "rajshahi" is a city in Bangladesh, and is spelled /ˈrɑːdʒʃəhi/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "ah" sound as in "father," followed by a "j" sound and a short "u" sound. The second syllable has a "sh" sound and an "ah" sound, while the final syllable has a short "i" sound. The spelling for this word reflects its Bengali origin, where the "j" sound is pronounced as a retroflex consonant.
Rajshahi is a term referring to a city and division located in the northwestern part of Bangladesh. The word "Rajshahi" is derived from the Persian language: "Raj" meaning "King" or "Rule," and "Shahi" meaning "City" or "Place." Hence, Rajshahi can be roughly translated as "City of Kings" or "City of Royalty."
As a city, Rajshahi is the administrative headquarters of the Rajshahi Division, which is one of the eight divisions within Bangladesh. It is situated on the northern bank of the river Padma, near the border with India. Rajshahi is known for its historical and cultural significance, with a rich heritage dating back to ancient times. The city has played a vital role in shaping the political, educational, and cultural landscape of Bangladesh.
Rajshahi is renowned for its vibrant agricultural activities, particularly in cultivating mangoes, with numerous mango orchards spread across the region. It is often referred to as the "Silk City" due to its long-standing history of silk production. The city also houses notable educational institutions, including Rajshahi University, which is one of the most prestigious universities in Bangladesh.
In summary, Rajshahi is a historic city and division in northwestern Bangladesh, known for its cultural significance, agricultural productivity, and educational institutions. It derives its name from the Persian language, symbolizing a city associated with royalty and rule.
The word "Rajshahi" has an interesting etymology. It originates from two separate words: "Raj" and "Shahi".
1. "Raj" - The term "Raj" is derived from Sanskrit and means "king" or "royal". In ancient India, "Raj" referred to the rule or kingdom of a king.
2. "Shahi" - This term is derived from the Persian word "Shah", which means "king" or "emperor". It was commonly used in the Mughal Empire to refer to royal or princely authority.
By combining these two words, "raj" and "shahi", the name "Rajshahi" is formed, which can be translated to mean "the royal city" or "the city of kings".