Hussaini Dalan is not just a Shiite centre in Dhaka; it is also a Dhaka landmark, spanning centuries of history. While its religious programmes, especially during Muharram and more particularly Ashura are unparalleled, Hussaini Dalan as a Dhaka heritage is extraordinary as well.

Barely three bookshelves with broken doors, shattered glass panes scattered all over the floor and damp cobweb-ridden walls -- such is the scene inside Farashganj’s Johnson Hall, also known as Lalkuthi.