Credit: Sheikh Abdullah
A Classic illustration of Mughal architecture, Taj-ul-Masjid is a magnificent 19th-century mosque that is situated just 4 km away from the Bhopal Junction. The grandeur mosque is one the largest mosques in Asia and should be on your itinerary whenever you visit Bhopal.
History of Taj-ul-Masjid
The construction of the mosque started in 1971 and was finally completed in 1985. The construction of the mosque was initiated in the reign of the Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar. The architect of the mosque was Nawab Shah Jahan Begum of Bhopal.
Architecture and Design of Taj-ul-Masjid
Spread over an area of 23,912 square feet it was built with red sandstone. It has 27 interlinked ceilings, with sixteen ceilings adorned with petal motifs that further enhance the beauty of the mosque. Bulbous domes on the rooftops are a remarkable feature of the mosque. Entry to the mosque from the eastern side is renovated with ancient motifs from circa 1250 Syrian mosque. The emir of Kuwait constructed this gate in memory of his departed wife.
The main hall is decorated with petal decorations and ornate pillars. The mosque has two 67-tall minarets covered with white domes guarding the mosque on both sides. The mosque is surrounded by a rectangular walled complex including an open courtyard and water tank, that further add to the aura of the mosque.
Annual Congregation
A three-day congregation is organized by Aalmi Tablighi Ijtima In Taj-ul-ulMasjid every year. The popularity of the event is so large that it is proved too small to host the event. So the congregation has moved to Islam Nagar.
Timing Taj-ul-Masjid
The mosque is open from 6 am to 8 pm and is easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw if anyone visits Bhopal.
Conclusion
If you like history, architecture, and religion then the mosque is sure to leave a lasting impression by its grandeur and elegance on the visitors.