Jama Masjid, Delhi India

Introduction

The oldest and the largest mosque in India, this architectural marvel attracts many tourists all over the world.

This holy spot open to the tourists on all the days except the intervals for the prayers.

Location

This mosque of architectural attraction is situated opposite to the Red Fort in Delhi-the capital city.

History

This mosque was built as the prime worship spot by the emperor Shah Jahan in 1658.

The architectural beauty of this mosque throws light on the mughal period and their creative expressions.

The main architect was Ustad Khaleel. This mosque is popularly known as Masjid Jahan Nama which purely means ‘the mosque that displays a view of the world’ for muslims, Friday is a very holy day and jama means Friday.

So this beautiful name Jama Masjid was coined.

Looking into its Interiors

Standing on an elevated plat form, it opens out to the city the three gates.

These three gates are double storeyed.

They are on the north, east and south. A tourist is led to the courtyard of the mosque through these gates.

 The royal family used the eastern gali, whereas the tourists are allowed to use only the northern and southern gates.

Having a length of about 80 metres, width of 27 metres  and height of 130 feet, this mosque faces the west.

The exquisite beauty inside is reflected by the roof, designed in white and black steps of marble and the top covered in gold the 100 sq.metres courtyard accommodates 25,000 people.

The Prayer Hall…Its Beauty and Similarity

The prayer hall is ornamented with arched marble structures. On it is engraved the detailed history of this holy structure. Its floor is similar to Agra’s pride- the Moti Masjid.

Very Special Features

 The north-eastern part of the mosque is regarded extremely holy as it contains the relics of Mohammed the prophet. Quran—the holy book of Muslims, is elaborately written in deer skin here.

A tourist standing on the southern minaret can have a beautiful view of the entire expanse of Old Delhi, enjoying the site of some of the very famous tourist marvels.

 This massive masjid can house 20,000 worshippers at a time.

Situated close to the vibrant shopping region in Delhi, Chandni Chowk and the Colossal historical marvel Red Fort, this masjid has a western chamber, with a big hall standing on 260 pillars Hindu and Jain culture.

 How will an aspiring tourist fail to include this magnificient spot in his list of favourites ?

How to Reach and Exact Location

One can reach Delhi by air from anywhere of the country.

Delhi also can be reached by rail and road from anywhere of the country.

After reaching the city every one can reach here by catching local buses and also can hire taxis or auto- rickshaws from anywhere throughout the city.