12 Interesting Facts about Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid, located in Old Delhi, India, is one of the
largest and most significant mosques in the country. It's a stunning example of
Mughal architecture and an important religious and historical site. Here are
some interesting facts about Jama Masjid:
1. **Built by Shah
Jahan**: Jama Masjid was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who
also built the Taj Mahal in Agra and the Red Fort in Delhi. It was constructed
between 1650 and 1656.
2. **Largest Mosque in India**: Jama Masjid is not only one
of the largest mosques in India but also in the world. It can accommodate
around 25,000 worshippers at a time.
3. **Architectural
Grandeur**: The mosque is constructed using red sandstone and white marble,
giving it a striking appearance. It features three massive domes, four towers,
and two 40-meter high minarets.
4. **Main Prayer Hall**: The main prayer hall of Jama Masjid
is a vast, open courtyard that can accommodate a large congregation. The
courtyard is paved with white and black marble, which is arranged in a stunning
pattern.
5. **Buland Darwaza**: The
entrance to the mosque is through the imposing Buland Darwaza, a grand gate
with a height of 41 meters. It's made of red sandstone and is adorned with
intricate carvings and verses from the Quran.
6. **Calligraphy**: The mosque is adorned with beautiful
calligraphy, including inscriptions from the Quran. The calligraphy on the
mosque is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic calligraphy in
India.
7. **Minarets**: The two
minarets of Jama Masjid are made of red sandstone and white marble and feature
ornate carvings. Each minaret has 130 steps leading to the top, which used to
be a vantage point for guarding against intruders.
8. **Friday Prayers**: Friday prayers at Jama Masjid are
especially significant. Thousands of worshippers gather for the Jumu'ah prayer,
and the sight of the congregation in the vast courtyard is impressive.
9. **Religious
Significance**: The mosque is a place of religious significance for Muslims in
India and is often visited by both tourists and devotees. It is also a site for
various Islamic festivals and events.
10. **Tourist Attraction**: Apart from its religious
importance, Jama Masjid is a major tourist attraction in Delhi. Visitors are
allowed to explore the mosque, climb the minarets, and enjoy panoramic views of
Old Delhi.
11. **Open to All**: While
it is a place of worship primarily for Muslims, Jama Masjid is open to people of
all faiths. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and remove their shoes
before entering the mosque.
12. **Light and Sound Show**: Jama Masjid occasionally hosts
light and sound shows in the evenings, which narrate the history and
significance of the mosque and the surrounding area.
Jama Masjid is not only a remarkable architectural wonder
but also a place where history, culture, and spirituality converge. It
continues to be a significant part of Delhi's heritage and is a must-visit
destination for anyone interested in India's rich history and diverse culture.
