The Masjids of India

Cheraman Juma Mosque Kodungallur, Thrissur District, Kerala, India

The Cheraman Perumal Mosque is located in Kodungallur, in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. It holds significant historical and cultural importance as it is believed to be the first mosque in India and one of the oldest in the world. Tradition holds that it was constructed in 629 CE by Malik Bin Dinar, a contemporary of the Prophet Muhammad(SAL).

Historical Significance

According to local legend, Cheraman Perumal, the reigning Chera king, witnessed a miraculous event�the splitting of the moon�a phenomenon also mentioned in Islamic tradition. Deeply moved and seeking understanding, he traveled to Mecca, where he embraced Islam and adopted the name Tajuddin. On his journey back to Kerala, he unfortunately passed away. However, he had entrusted his companions, including Malik Bin Dinar, with letters to the local rulers, requesting their support in propagating Islam. Honoring his wishes, Malik Bin Dinar arrived in Kerala and established the Cheraman Juma Masjid.

• The mosque was established in 629 AD by Malik Deenar, one of the companions of Prophet Muhammad.
• It is named after Cheraman Perumal, a Chera dynasty king who is believed to have embraced Islam after witnessing a divine vision and then traveled to Mecca.
• After his conversion, he took the name Tajuddin and initiated the construction of the mosque upon his return to Kerala.

Jama Masjid, Delhi, India

The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, commonly known as Jama Masjid of Delhi is the principal mosque of Old Delhi in India. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and completed in the year 1656 AD, it is one of the largest and best known mosques in India. It was built after demolition of a very ancient Hindu temple known as Jamna Devi temple dedicated to the Yamuna river. (There are also Jama Masjids in many other cities with a history of Islamic rule, or large Muslim populations.)

Masjid-i-Jahan Numa means 'the mosque commanding a view of the world', and the name Jama Masjid is a reference to the weekly congregation observed on Friday (the yaum al-jum`a) at the mosque. The courtyard of the mosque can hold up to twenty-five thousand worshippers. The mosque also houses several relics in a closet in the north gate, including a copy of the Qur'an written on deer skin incurred on the construction in those times was ten lakh rupees. (A lakh is one hundred thousand; ten lakh therefore equals one million).

Shah Jahan built several important mosques in Delhi, Agra, Ajmer and Lahore. The Jama Masjid's floorplan is very similar to the Moti Masjid at Agra, but the Jama Masjid is the bigger and more imposing of the two. Its majesty is further enhanced because of the high ground that he selected for building this mosque.

Architecture

The courtyard of the mosque can be reached from the east, north and south by three flights of steps, all built of red sandstone. The northern gate of the mosque has 39 steps. The southern side of the mosque has 33 steps. The eastern gate of the mosque was the royal entrance and it has 35 steps. These steps used to house food stalls, shops and street entertainers. In the evening, the eastern side of the mosque used to be converted into a bazaar for poultry and birds in general. Prior to the 1857 War of Indian Independence, there was a madrassah near the southern side of the mosque, which was pulled down after the mutiny.

The mosque faces west. Its three sides are covered with open arched colonnades, each having a lofty tower-like gateway in the centre. The mosque is about 261 feet (80 m) long and 90 feet (27 m) wide, and its roof is covered with three domes with alternate stripes of black and white marble, with its topmost parts covered with gold. Two lofty minarets, 130 feet (40 m) high, and containing 130 steps, longitudinally striped with white marble and red sandstone, flank the domes on either side. The minarets are divided by three projecting galleries and are surmounted by open twelve-sided domed pavilions. On the back of the mosque, there are four small minarets crowned like those in the front.

Under the domes of the mosque, is a hall with seven arched entrances facing the west and the walls of the mosque, up to the height of the waist, are covered with marble. Beyond this is a prayer hall, which is about 61 meters X 27.5 meters, with eleven arched entrances, of which the centre arch is wide and lofty, and in the form of a massive gateway, with slim minarets in each corner, with the usual octagonal pavilion surmounting it. Over these arched entrances there are tablets of white marble, four feet (1.2 m) long and 2.5 feet (760 mm) wide, inlaid with inscriptions in black marble. These inscriptions give the history of the building of the mosque, and glorify the reign and virtues of Shah Jahan. The slab over the centre arch contains simply the words 'The Guide!'

The mosque stands on a platform of about five feet (1.5 m) from the pavement of the terrace, and three flight of steps lead to the interior of the mosque from the east, north, and the south. The floor of the mosque is covered with white and black marble ornamented to imitate the Muslim prayer mat; a thin black marble border is marked for the worshippers, which is three feet long and 1 ½ feet wide. In total there are 899 such spaces marked in the floor of the mosque. The back of the mosque is cased over to the height of the rock on which the mosque stands with large hewn stones.

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Qutub Minar, Delhi, India

The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the Qutub Minar are two of India's most significant historical monuments, both located within the Qutub Complex in Delhi. These structures not only represent the architectural prowess of their time but also stand as testaments to the cultural and religious transformations that occurred in the Indian subcontinent during the medieval period.

Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, Delhi, India


Historical Background

The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, translating to "Might of Islam," / "Glory of Islam," holds the distinction of being the first mosque built in Delhi after the Islamic conquest. Commissioned by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1193 AD, the mosque was constructed to commemorate his victory over the Rajputs. Aibak, the founder of the Mamluk or Slave dynasty, initiated the mosque's construction using materials from 27 dismantled Hindu and Jain temples, symbolizing the establishment of Muslim rule in the region. Later, a lofty arched screen was erected and the mosque was enlarged by later Delhi sultans Shams-ud-Din Iltutmish (A.D. 1210 - 1235) and Ala-ud-Din Khalji.

Architectural Features

The mosque showcases a unique blend of Indo-Islamic architecture:

• Courtyard and Prayer Hall: The mosque features a large rectangular courtyard enclosed by intricately carved pillars on three sides. The western side houses the main prayer hall, distinguished by its five-arched screen, which was an innovative feature at the time.
• Use of Spolia: The incorporation of pillars and other elements from demolished temples is evident, with many pillars displaying Hindu iconography, including floral motifs and geometric patterns. This amalgamation highlights the cultural and religious shifts of the period.
• Arched Screen: The mosque's western facade is adorned with a series of corbelled arches, showcasing early experimentation with Islamic architectural styles in India.

Shahar Ki Masjid, Champaner, Gujarat, India

The Shahar Ki Masjid is a historic mosque located in Champaner, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gujarat, India. It is one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture in the region and holds significant historical and architectural importance.

Historical Background

• Built By: The Shahar Ki Masjid was constructed during the late 15th century by the rulers of the Gujarat Sultanate, specifically during the reign of Mahmud Begada.
• Purpose: It was primarily built for the royal family and nobles of Champaner and served as the Friday Mosque of the city.
• Champaner-Pavagadh Complex: The mosque is part of the larger Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004.

Taj ul Masajid, Bhopal, India

The Taj-ul-Masajid (meaning "Crown of Mosques") is one of the largest mosques in India, located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Known for its grandeur and architectural splendor, it serves as an important religious and cultural landmark.is a Sunni mosque, affiliated with Tablighi Jamaat, part of the Deobandi movement, located in Bhopal, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. With capacity for c. 175,000 worshippers, it is the largest mosque in India and, as of 2014, was the ninth largest mosque in the world.

Historical Background

• Commissioned By: The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Shah Jahan Begum, the ruler of Bhopal, in 1877. She was one of the few female rulers in Indian history who significantly contributed to architecture and culture.
• Construction Period: Although the construction began during her reign, it remained incomplete due to a lack of funds. It was later completed in the 1970s with the efforts of the local community and the government.
• Name Meaning: "Taj-ul-Masajid" translates to "Crown of Mosques", reflecting its grandeur and significance.

The Dargahs of India

Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Ajmer District, Rajasthan, India

The Ajmer Sharif Dargah, located in the city of Ajmer in Rajasthan, India, is one of the most revered Sufi shrines in the world. It is the mausoleum of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti (Gharib Nawaz), the founder of the Chishti Sufi order in India. Millions of devotees�Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and people of all faiths�visit the dargah every year, seeking blessings, peace, and spiritual solace.

Historical Significance

Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti arrived in India around the 12th century during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate. Born in Sistan (present-day Iran/Afghanistan region), he traveled widely across the Islamic world before settling in Ajmer.

• He dedicated his life to serving the poor, spreading love, compassion, and harmony�values central to the Chishti Sufi philosophy.
• After his passing in 1236 CE, a mausoleum was built over his grave, which later expanded into the grand complex seen today.
• Over centuries, Mughal emperors�including Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb�patronized the dargah and contributed to its architecture and upkeep.
• Emperor Akbar famously walked barefoot from Agra to Ajmer to seek the saint�s blessings for a child, leading to the birth of Jahangir.
• The Ajmer Sharif Dargah has become a symbol of spiritual inclusiveness, drawing people from across religions, regions, and cultures.

Ala Hazrat Dargah, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India

The Ala Hazrat Dargah, located in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India, is the revered mausoleum of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi (Ala Hazrat), one of the most prominent Islamic scholars, jurists, theologians, and Sufi leaders of the 19th�20th century. A towering figure in the Indian subcontinent, Ala Hazrat is widely respected for his vast scholarly contributions, his defense of traditional Sunni beliefs, and his deep spiritual influence within the Barelvi movement. The dargah attracts millions of devotees and scholars every year, who visit to pay tribute and seek spiritual blessings.

Historical Significance

Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (1856�1921), popularly known as Ala Hazrat, was born and lived his entire life in Bareilly. A prolific scholar, he authored more than a thousand works on Islamic jurisprudence, theology, Arabic, Fiqh, Hadith, mathematics, astronomy, literature, and Tasawwuf.

• He is celebrated for his magnum opus �Fatawa Razvia�, a multi-volume compilation of Islamic legal opinions.
• Ala Hazrat played a vital role in strengthening the Ahl-e-Sunnat (Sunni Sufi) tradition in South Asia.
• His teachings emphasized love for Prophet Muhammad ?, adherence to Sunni orthodoxy, respect for Sufi practices, and charitable service to humanity.
• After his passing in 1921, his mausoleum became a major spiritual center for Muslims across India and abroad.
• The dargah today stands as a symbol of Islamic scholarship, spiritual guidance, and reverence for the Prophet

Nagore Dargah, Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India

The Nagore Dargah, located in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu, India, is one of the most revered Sufi shrines in South India. It is the sacred mausoleum of Hazrat Syed Shahul Hameed Qadiri (Nagore Andavar), a 16th-century Sufi saint known for his compassion, spiritual wisdom, and service to humanity. The dargah holds more than 500 years of history and is visited by devotees from all faiths, reflecting its deep cultural and spiritual significance. One of its most iconic features is the towering �Periya Minara�, which enhances the beauty of the coastal town and symbolizes the saint�s spiritual greatness. The architecture of the shrine blends Indian, Mughal, and Arab styles, showcasing domes, tall minarets, and intricate decorative work. The annual Nagore Kanduri Festival attracts lakhs of devotees from around the world and celebrates harmony, peace, and universal brotherhood. The dargah complex also includes courtyards, prayer halls, and ancient relics associated with the saint. Known for its atmosphere of tranquility and devotion, the shrine stands as a symbol of unity beyond religious boundaries. As an important cultural and historical monument, Nagore Dargah continues to inspire people through its message of love, service, and spiritual upliftment.

Ervadi Dargah, Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, India

The Ervadi Dargah, located in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, India, is the sacred resting place of Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha, a 12th-century Yemeni king and revered Sufi saint. He arrived in India to spread peace, justice, and the message of Islam, ultimately sacrificing his life in the region, which led to the establishment of this holy shrine. The dargah holds immense historical and spiritual significance, attracting devotees of all faiths who come to seek blessings, healing, and inner peace. Known for its serene coastal setting, the shrine complex includes the chilla, battle sites, and ancient relics connected to the life and martyrdom of Ibrahim Shaheed. The architecture reflects traditional Indo-Islamic elements with white domes, spacious courtyards, and simple yet dignified design. Ervadi is especially renowned for its annual Santhanakoodu Festival, one of the largest spiritual gatherings in South India, symbolizing unity and communal harmony. The dargah is also known for its tradition of prayer-based healing, where many seek relief from mental and emotional distress. Visitors often express experiencing a sense of solace and spiritual calm within the shrine�s peaceful environment. With centuries of legacy, Ervadi Dargah stands as a testament to faith, sacrifice, and the enduring message of compassion. It remains an important pilgrimage site, preserving both the cultural and religious heritage of Tamil Nadu.

Hazrath Thable Alam Dargah, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India

The Hazrath Thable Alam Badhusha Nathervali Dargah, located in Tharanallur, Tiruchirappalli, is one of the oldest and most revered Islamic shrines in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Hazrat Nathervali, a 10th-century Sufi saint believed to have arrived from Syria to spread peace and spirituality. Local tradition connects the dargah to the Chola period, stating that when Nathervali reached Trichy during the reign of a Chola ruler, the king respectfully gifted him land to settle�marking the beginning of the shrine�s long history. Over centuries, the dargah evolved into a significant religious landmark featuring a central dome, prayer halls, and tombs of the saint and his close companions. Known for its calm spiritual atmosphere, the shrine attracts devotees from all faiths who come to seek blessings, healing, and peace. The annual Santhanakoodu / Urs Festival draws thousands of pilgrims and highlights the region�s tradition of communal harmony. With its blend of early medieval legacy, Indo-Islamic architecture, and living Sufi tradition, the Thable Alam Dargah remains an important cultural and spiritual symbol in the heart of Trichy.