Before the Lines

by Nazimuddin Ahmed

324 pages, Paperback

Published May 10, 2026

About the author

Dr. Nazimuddin Ahmed was an eminent archaeologist and scholar whose work laid the foundation for modern archaeological study in Bangladesh. Born on March 1, 1923, into a family of distinguished researchers—his father, Maulvi Samsuddin Ahmed, was also a reputed archaeologist—Dr. Ahmed dedicated his life to uncovering and preserving the cultural heritage of South Asia.

Academic Background
Education: Completed early studies in Kolkata and Taki, earning his BA from Islamia College (1946) and his Masters from Kolkata University (1949).
Doctorate: He obtained his PhD in Archaeology from University College London (UCL) in 1958. His doctoral dissertation focused on the History and Archaeology of Taxila.

Professional Career & Fieldwork
Starting his career in 1950, Dr. Ahmed received rigorous field training under the legendary Sir Mortimer Wheeler at Mohenjo-daro. His career highlights include:

Leadership: Served as the Director General of Archaeology and Museums in both Pakistan and, later, Bangladesh.
International Impact: In 1976, he served as a UNESCO Consultant in Somalia, where he drafted the master plan for the nation's Department of Archaeology.
Major Excavations: He led vital excavations at Mahasthangarh. His explorations in the Chittagong Hill Tracts ultimately resulted in the establishment of the Ethnological Museum at Chittagong in 1974.


Notable Publications
Dr. Ahmed was a prolific writer whose books serve as essential texts for students of archaeology and history:

Mahasthan: A Preliminary Report of the Recent Archaeological Excavations
Discover the Monuments of Bangladesh
The Buildings of Khan Jahan in and around Bagerhat
Buildings of the British Raj in Bangladesh
Panam City (2009)