Mud House Bangladesh

In the village, some people build and repair mud houses themselves, while others hire skilled artisans known as “Ghorami“—specialists in mud house construction.

Building and repairing mud houses is relatively easy and cost-effective. Instead of cement or sand, sticky clay soil is used to construct these houses.

Construction Style

For single-story mud houses, walls are built 12 to 14 feet high, and the ceiling is supported by bamboo, wood, or iron angles, covered with a tin roof. For double-story houses, the walls are constructed between 13 to 25 feet high.

A wooden floor is created at around 13 feet using sliced palm tree trunks, and a 2 to 3-inch thick wooden roof is placed on top.

Then, at a height of 25 feet, a tin roof is placed, similar to single-story houses. Mud houses can still be seen in areas like Bhaluka and Trishal in Mymensingh, Gazipur, and Sylhet in Bangladesh.

Nowadays, people have modified the traditional construction methods of mud houses. Instead of using wet clay, they mix dry loose soil, straw, and 5% cement to create blocks.

These blocks are then compacted using a scientific approach, making the houses more eco-friendly and durable.

Change

With the touch of modernity and evolving tastes, the environment has undergone significant changes over time. This has brought about a fundamental transformation in both family and social life.

As a result, the traditional mud house, which was once popular for dwelling, is gradually becoming extinct. In the past, mud houses were a common form of residence, but today, most houses are constructed with wood and tin.

Those who are financially stable have built brick-and-cement houses.

The Art of Building Mud House in Rural Bangladesh

Local elderly residents recall a time when mud houses in rural Bangladesh were considered palatial in their simplicity.

These homes were constructed at minimal cost, with family members working together to complete them within just a few days.

Using simple tools like shovels, they would loosen and dry the clay soil before mixing in water to form a smooth mud paste. This paste was then layered to build sturdy, visually pleasing structures.

These houses were not only quick and affordable to build, but they also offered natural insulation—keeping interiors cool during the summer and warm in the winter.

Mud House Bangladesh is A Living Heritage

In this riverine land, Bangladesh’s unique geology has long influenced traditional housing, with mud playing a central role.

The village of Madhushal showcases the best of this legacy, preserving one of the oldest construction techniques in the country. These homes feature tin roofs supported by bamboo rafters, with walls and floors entirely made of mud.

This tradition, passed down through generations, reflects the quiet rhythm of rural life—starting early each morning and flowing into the day’s domestic chores.

Some homes are even two stories high and decorated with mirrors, adding charm to their practicality. These mud houses are not only sustainable and durable but also symbols of a self-reliant lifestyle that harmonizes with nature.

Sustainability

Madhushal village embodies the true essence of rural life, with everything from fish, meat, vegetables, rice, lentils, to potatoes. Most of the vegetables used in cooking are supplied by the villagers themselves.

With the mud stove and the magical touch of the housewife’s hands, rural food here retains the timeless charm of authentic flavors.

In wealthier households, a distinctive feature is the pigeon loft in front of the house. The girls of Madhushal are well-known for their skills in stitching nakshi katha (traditional embroidered quilts).

Through the art of kantha stitching, they preserve the heritage of rural Bengal, woven together with thread and needle.

This beautifully crafted nakshi katha is a symbol of pride in the village’s rural cultural legacy. The population of Madhushal is nearly 4,000, with more women than men in the community.

Located in the Monohordi upazila of Narsingdi, this charming village, with its blend of rich traditions and natural beauty, is a true reflection of the splendor and grace of rural life.