India, a land where diverse cultures, traditions, and religions coalesce, is a treasure trove of architectural marvels. Among these, the mosques scattered across the country stand as timeless symbols of faith, history, and artistry. From the grandeur of the north to the serenity of the south, each mosque tells a unique tale of the communities that built them and the centuries they have withstood. In this journey from North to South, we explore India's most renowned mosques, weaving a tapestry of spirituality and architectural brilliance. But why, you wonder?
Well because the surreal majestic energy that a mosque enchants is a divine connection that a devotee gets experience when visiting one. It is a place where all supreme power congregates to bless a downcast. The artistic domes narrate the story of people, culture and costumes, such is the significance of these pilgrimage places. Have you ever had a chance experiencing such faithful pure spirituality? If not, here are 5 most renowned mosques in India that you must plan to visit.
Hazratbal Mosque, Srinagar
Tucked away in the array of majestically divine Himalayas, surrounded by the enchanting Dal Lake, Srinagar's Hazratbal is one of the most renowned mosques in India. The stunning shrine is a bespoke paradigm of Persian and Iranian architecture that has roofs resembling pagodas — the only mosque in Kashmir that has domes. The pilgrimage site has the relic of Prophet Muhammad known as Moi-e-Muqaddas —Syed Abdullah, a prophet Muhammad descendent, brought this hair to India in 1635. It is also known to be Assar-e-Sharief, Madinat-us-Sani, and Dargah Sharif, and is arguably the most venerated communal pilgrimage.
Timing: 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM, everyday.
Location: Hazratbal Rd, Hazratbal, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.
Madina Mosque, Shillong
India's only glass mosque that is nestled in the picturesque lanes of Laban, Shillong, is a singular fusion of artistic magnificence and religious convictions. The mosque's glistening glass domes and walls are enough to keep you enthralled for hours on end! The central dome, graceful arches, and thin minarets are all embellished with glass accents. When sunlight reflects in a colorful pool, it creates an amazing sight. The mystical interplay of glass and sunshine boosts the sacred experience. The four story mosque is equipped with a library, an Islamic theological institute and an orphanage.
Timing : Open 24 hours
Location: Laban, Shillong, Meghalaya
Jamali Kamali Mosque, Delhi
The most exquisite Mughal structure in Delhi, Jamali Kamali is another renowned mosque on the list, an architectural wonder of the Mughal era, is situated in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park. Jamali and Kamali were two historical figures who were honored by the construction of the complex, which includes a tomb and a mosque.
Under the pseudonym Jamali, Shaikh Jamali Kamboh was a well-known Sufi saint who was highly esteemed in the courts of Humayun and Babur, the Mughal Emperors, and Sikandar Lodi. The true identity of Kamali, who has been variously described by historians as his disciple, lover, wife, or sibling, has been lost to the pages of time.
Constructed by the prolific Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, this mosque is a symphony of red sandstone and white marble, radiating an aura of regality. The courtyard, capable of accommodating thousands of worshippers, pulsates with life during Friday prayers. The call to prayer, echoing through the crowded lanes of Old Delhi, creates a vivid connection between the divine and the human spirit.
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, everyday
Location: Mehrauli Archaeological Park Jamali Kamali, Delhi
Haji Ali Dargah, Mumbai
An impressive example of Indo-Islamic architecture is Haji Ali Dargah, one of the most well-known Islamic shrines. The mortal remains of a 15th-century Sufi saint, Pir Haji Ali Shah Bukhari, are kept at the Haji Ali Dargah, which is renowned for its captivating setting, exquisite architecture, and religious significance. The mosque looks like a fantasy realm floating on the water, especially when viewed against the stunning Arabian Sea backdrop. Haji Ali Dargah, one of the top tourist destinations outside of Mumbai, is around 6 kilometers from Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus.
Timing: 5:30 AM to 10: 00 PM, everyday
Location: Dargah Rd, Haji Ali, Mumbai
Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad
In the historic city of Hyderabad, the Mecca Masjid stands as a grandeur tribute to the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Constructed using granite and adorned with exquisite arches, the mosque is a symphony of Persian and Indian architectural influences. As the call to prayer echoes through the massive courtyard, a diverse congregation assembles, creating a beautiful mosaic of cultural unity. The connection between the faithful, irrespective of their backgrounds, becomes palpable in the shared moments of prayer. Muhammad Quli Qutub Shah put up the effort to have it constructed, and it was finally finished in 1694. The building had begun in 1614.
The massive dome of the Mecca Masjid is truly a sobering sight to witness, with room for up to 10,000 people at any given moment. The interiors of it provide witness to the opulence of the Quli dynasty's kings.
Heads up: Please be aware, though, that only Muslims are now permitted entry into the mosque.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 9:30 PM, everyday
Location: Charminar Rd, Charminar, Ghansi Bazaar, Hyderabad