Image Source: 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. However, one of the inscriptions in the mosque dates back to the reign of Dilwar Khan but doesn’t mention the mosque itself. Famous historian R. Nath suggests that it was placed later in the mosque and was not originally part of the mosque. 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 entrance of the mosque is designed with intricate geometric and floral carvings.It led to an entrance to a courtyard that measured 31m by 25m, with pillared cloisters on the northern and southern sides. It’s believed that the structure belongs to the 15th-century Khilji-era structure.
Currently the two-storey structures serve as the residence of a maulvi, but in the past they have been a guest house for visiting dignitaries.
At the western end of the mosque lies a prayer hall that measures 38m by 12m and runs north to south. Its topped with three white marble domes lacking a minaret tower that is usually not found in Islamic architecture. At the centre in the prayer halls there lies a simple stone mimbar (pulpit) with eight steps that stands at the centre. Its used for delivering Friday sermons (khutba) and special prayers on Muslim festivals.
A unique architectural element, also seen in other Chanderi monuments, is the use of serpentine struts to support the chajjas (eaves) on the northern and southern sides. Though they appear functional, their purpose is mainly decorative.
How to Reach
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.
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 the Bundelkhand Express and the Malwa Express.
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.