Name: Bhopal
Rating: 3.2

Jama Masjid, Bhopal Overview

Constructed during the period of Quidisiya Begum, Jama Masjid is a revered shrine and popular tourist destination in the city of Bhopal. It is officially known as Taj-ul-Masajid, which translates to "Crown Among Mosques". The magnificent architecture of Jama Masjid boasts of classic Islamic architecture with its beautiful shrine and two tall minarets. It is the largest mosque in the country and is counted among the largest in the continent as well.

The charm and religious significance of Jama Masjid attract devotees from all over Bhopal as well as from far off places. The mosque is spread over a large area and its simple and charming design can be spotted from far away. It is made out of red stones and has two minarets flanking the main structure. The entire surface of Jama Masjid is embellished with careful carvings and ornamental windows, with the three marble domes standing out against the contrast of the blue sky. Inside the complex, a small pond and the royal market area is present as well. A symbol of all that is spiritual and divine, Taj - ul - Masajid is a wonderful experience.

History of Jama Masjid Bhopal

The magnificent edifice of Jama Masjid was commissioned for construction by the Nawab of Bhopal Nawab Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal who was the wife of Baqi Mohammad Khan, during the reign of Bahadur Shah Zafar. The construction was further continued by their daughter Sultan Jahan Begum, but could not be completed due to the lack of funds. The construction was continued in the year 1971 under the guidance of Maulana Sayed Hashmat and Allama Mohammad Imran Khan Nadwi Azhari of Bhopal. Jama Masjid finally saw completion in the year 1985.

Architecture of Jama Masjid Bhopal

As soon as you come into the vicinity of the mosque, your eyes are drawn straight to the minarets of the Jama Masjid followed by the magnificent white of the three domes. In addition to these, the mosque is embellished with splendid archways and detailed carvings into the marble. Even more beautiful than the outer facade is the ornamentation on the inside, which is decorated with pillars boasting of intricate petal patterns. Jama Masjid opens up onto a vast courtyard which has long corridors both on the east and the west side. This region also has three aisles which provide access to the northern and southern parts of the mosque. The courtyard has a huge tank situated right in the middle and has pious waters in its confines. Then comes the main hallway which is adorned with 4 archways and 9 multifold. This hall has the Quibla wall which is beautifully carved 11 arches and intricately designed screens as well.

Annual Congregation: Aalmi Tablighi Ijtima

The Taj - ul - Masajid plays host to the yearly 3-day congregation of Aalmi Tablighi, which is a well-known event and attracts devotees from all around the globe. in this congregation, discussions of peace and faith are held with the intention of understanding Islam better. The meeting begins on a Saturday when a number of Muslim clerics and scholars deliver lectures on the Islamic way of life and the Six Principles. The programme is held throughout the week end in this manner and is concluded with a prayer on Monday morning. About a million people gather for the Final Prayers and half a million stay on Ijtema ground. Mass marriages are also a part of this yearly celebration.

Tips For Visiting Jama Masjid

1. Since this is a religious destination, make sure you are modestly dressed
2. Cover your head before entering the shrine
3. Donations can be made to the mosque trust as well