Jama Masjid




The largest Indian mosque is Jama Masjid which is situated at Delhi. It has been erupted in front of Red Fort across the road. Shah Jahan constructed this mosque between the years 1644 to 1658. It stands one among his last architectural works. Jama Masjid can accommodate more than 1000 people in its courtyard. It is situated on mound in the centre of old city and ejects amazingly into the skyline of Old city. More than 5000 workers were involved in the construction of this Jama Masjid with marble and red sandstone. Jama Masjid was originally referred as ‘Masjid-i-Jahan-Numa’ or ‘mosque commanding view of the world’. Jama Masjid stands proudly stands at the center of Shahjahanbad, Mughals capital city.

Jama Masjid was built under the guidance of Shah Jahan’s Prime Minister, Saadullah Khan. It was built with the cost of about 10 lakhs. Jama Masjid was constructed on red sandstone deck with a height of about 30 feet or 10 metres and a width of approximately 1200 square metre or 1400 square yards. There are 2 minarets, 4 towers and 3 gateways in Jama Masjid. There are fleets of steps in both south and north gateways. On its eastern side, lies the main entrance facing towards the Red Fort. This route was guessed to be used by emperors themselves. There are 5 distinctive storeys on the tower of this Jama Masjid. There are projecting balconies on each of these storeys. All the adjacent buildings deliver amazing calligraphy.

The initial 3 storey’s present in Jama Masjid are made from red sandstone while the 4th is of marble. The 5th is again made from sandstone. The entire building of Jama Masjid carries intricate carvings depicting the verses from holy Koran. Towards the eastern part of Jama Masjid stands the great Lal Qila or Red Fort. There are marble constructed domes and huge cusped arches at the main hall meant for prayers. There is a cabinet close to the northern gate of this Masjid containing Muhammad’s collection including a marble block carrying the footprints, sandals and red beard hair of Muhammad and also a Koran inscribed on the skin of a deer.

History

One of the greatest Mughal architecture is the largest and oldest Jama Masjid. In 1658, this Masjid was constructed by Shah Jahan as his prime worship spot. Jama Masjid attracts thousands of tourists with its stunning Mughal architecture. Ustad Khalil bears the credit of being its chief architect. Jama Masjid is popularly referred as ‘Masjid-i-Jahan Numa’ which means ‘the mosque that commands a view of the world’. The term ‘Jama’ refers to Friday - the most auspicious day for Muslims and thus the place got its name as ‘Jama Masjid’.

Architecture

This rectangle shaped mosque consists of central nave carrying a single dome, 2 square shaped chambers with domes and 2 colonnaded halls on both the sides. There are several carved mihrabs that decorate the 2 small size rooms and also the main chamber.

Jama Masjid stands as a representative to denote the transformation in the great Islamic architecture. Their indigenous architecture was mixed with Persian elements. The facade with dalan pillars, the panel framed Iwan consisting of three arched openings are decorated by 5 chhatris along with the central mihrabs embellished with inlaid stones and bordered by beautifully glazed tiles with golden inscriptions against royal blue backdrop which is a tribute to this trend. The Iwan interiors are decorated with styling floral pattern of watercolor paintings. The soffits, arch spandrels and dado panels are also luxuriously painted. In Jama Masjid, the domes get their support through pendentives. This complex also carries Salim Chishti tomb and Buland Darwaza inside its arena.

How to Reach Jama Masjid

Metro

One should reach ‘Chawri Bazaar’ station through Metro and can opt for rickshaw to reach the meeting point or can preferably walk towards the monument.

Bus

Bus service towards Red Fort or Jama Masjid will cross the meeting point.

Auto/Cab

An Auto or cab will drop at Jama Masjid, Gate No.3 near to police station.

OUR PLANING

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