Jama Masjid, Chanderi – Madhya Pradesh

Credit:Pranesh Tiwari (SPD)

History

Jama masjid is a popular mosque that was built in the 13th century by Ghiassudin Balban, during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate. One of the oldest and largest mosques in the entire Bundelkhand region is situated at a distance of 1.5 km from the Chanderi bus station and opposite the Bada Mahal gate. During the prayers, it can accommodate up to 2000 people. 

Architecture

The mosque entrance is decorated with leaf ornaments, geometrical and floral patterns. However, the gateway is not the original part of the mosque but comes from the ruined fort of Timarpur. The vast courtyard is surrounded by passageways on both sides. The passageway’s eaves are supported by serpentine brackets.  

Inside the courtyard, there is a pond that was once used by people to wash their hands and feet before offering namaz (prayers). However, it is no longer in use and has dried up. Beyond the courtyard, there is the main hall, which is roofed with three large domes. The mosque’s monochrome building, with small embellishments, open arches, and delicate additions, adds to its minimalist grace. The highlight of the place is the plaque with the name of ‘Dilawar Khan Ghori,’ which belonged to the site of ruins at Tamarpura.

The pond inside the courtyard is used by people to wash their hands and feet before offering Namaz. However, it’s no longer in use and has dried up. Three large domes and the main hall are situated beside the courtyard.  The main feature of the mosque is a plaque of “ Dialwa kha ghori” that belongs to the ruins of Timarpur. Open arches, small embellishments, and the monochrome building add to the minimalist grace of the mosque. 

How to Reach

road

By Car: Chanderi is well-connected by road and can be reached via National Highway 52. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from nearby cities like Jhansi, Gwalior, or Bhopal to reach Chanderi.

train

By Train: Chanderi has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The railway station is located on the Bina-Kota railway line and is served by regular trains. Some of the popular trains that run to Chanderi include Bundelkhand Express and Malwa Express.

air

By Air: The nearest airport to Chanderi is the Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, located about 230 km away. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Chanderi.