Cheraman Juma Mosque Thrissur | First Mosque In India

Cheraman Juma Mosque, Thrissur Overview

The Cheraman Juma Mosque, located in the Methala village of Kodungallur town, Kerala, holds the distinction of being the first and oldest mosque in India, built in 629 CE by Malik Ibn Dinar. It is unique as the second-oldest mosque where Jumu'ah prayers are offered. One of its distinctive features is its westward orientation, unlike most mosques that face east.

The architecture of the mosque is a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, with sloping tiled roofs and intricate wooden interiors reflecting Kerala's traditional design. Inside, a 1000-year-old lamp continues to burn, with devotees, including people of other faiths, offering oil as a sign of reverence and unity. It is also believed that the mosque houses white marble brought from Mecca, further adding to its historical significance.

Festivals such as Ramadan, Bakra-Eid, and even the Hindu festival Vijaya Dasami are celebrated with enthusiasm, showcasing the interfaith harmony of the region. Visitors are drawn not only to its spiritual ambiance but also to its rich historical legacy and peaceful setting, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

History of Cheraman Juma Masjid

One night, Cheraman Perumal the king of Kodungallur, saw a dream that the moon was split into two. When none of the astrologers in the palace could give him a convincing response, he started feeling restless. However, the Muslim businessmen, who had come to Kodungallur for business, were able to convince the king and stated that when Divayaalbuthum was shown to the sacred people by the prophet, the king was able to see it in his dream. The Perumal decided to follow the Islam religion after which he divided the ruling to his followers.

Following this, the Perumal went to see the prophet in Mecca and spend some time with him. He then decided to return, but while he was coming back, he fell ill at Bufar. His condition deteriorated, and he wrote letters to the rulers in Kodungallur and gave it to the people with him. After he died, those people gave the letters to the rulers who then allowed for the construction of the mosque. The Cheraman Juma Masjid was then built by Malik Bin Deenar and Malik Bin Habib. It is believed that the tomb inside the Cheraman Juma Masjid belongs to Malik Bin Habib and his wife. Malik Bin Deenar travelled across Kerala spreading Islam and built mosques.

Architecture of Cheraman Juma Masjid

The mosque has been constructed in the Hindu style of architecture and is built using brass. The place has carvings where the Imam recites the Friday prayer or Jumuah and is built on the rosewood platform. The mosque also comprises of white marble which is believed to have been brought in from Makah.

Best Time To Visit Cheraman Juma Mosque

The perfect time to pay a visit to the mosque is between December and February since the climate is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 22 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius.

How To Reach Cheraman Juma Mosque

Cheraman Juma Mosque can be easily reached from Thrissur as there are some private and government bus services available. Tourists coming to visit the mosque by road can avail the nearest bus stand, i.e., Kodungallur situated at a distance of 3 km. Since numerous private, as well as state-owned buses and taxis, ply between Kodungallur and Thrissur, reaching the mosque is not a problem.