Table of Contents
Jama Masjid
Delhi’s Jama Masjid stands as a crowning achievement of Mughal architecture, epitomizing the grandeur and vision of Emperor Shah Jahan. Situated at the core of Old Delhi, this monumental mosque from the 17th century is a pivotal destination for anyone visiting India’s capital. Recognized as India’s most spectacular mosque, no journey to Delhi is considered complete without exploring the Jama Masjid.
This blog delves deep into the rich heritage of this iconic monument, covering its historical background, unique architectural features, visiting hours, entrance charges, and other fascinating facts about the Jama Masjid in Delhi. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, here’s everything you need to know to enhance your visit to this majestic site.
Essential Guide To Jama Masjid, Delhi
Overview:
- Location: Just off Netaji Subhash Marg, in the bustling area of Chandni Chowk
- Known As: Masjid-i Jahan-Numa
- Type: Iconic Mosque
Visitor Information:
- Mosque Visiting Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM – 6:30 PM daily (Note: Closed to tourists during prayer times)
- Minaret Access Times: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Entry Fee for Mosque: None
- Minaret Entry Fee: ₹100 per person
- Camera Fee: ₹300
Accessibility:
- Closest Metro Station: Jama Masjid Metro Station
Historical Significance:
- Commissioned by: Emperor Shah Jahan
- Year Established: 1656
- Construction Cost: 1 million rupees originally
- Architectural Style: Blend of Indo-Islamic and Mughal architecture
- Materials: Predominantly red sandstone and white marble
Current Status:
- Managed by: Delhi Waqf Board
- Function: Active place of worship and popular tourist destination
Whether you are interested in historical architecture, cultural immersion, or just looking for a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, Jama Masjid offers a breathtaking glimpse into India’s rich past and vibrant present.
History
The Jama Masjid of Delhi, a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan within the majestic confines of Shahjahanabad, the then capital of the Mughal Empire. The construction, initiated in 1644, unfolded over twelve painstaking years, culminating in 1656. Over 5,000 laborers toiled under the watchful eye of Saadullah Khan, the Emperor’s wazir, to erect this monumental edifice at a staggering cost of one million rupees.
Originally christened as Masjid-i-Jahan Numa, or ‘the Mosque that Reflects the World’, it later acquired the name Jama Masjid, signifying its role as the principal mosque for Friday congregations. The mosque’s grand opening was officiated by Imam Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhari, a distinguished cleric invited from Bukhara (modern-day Uzbekistan), who was also appointed its first Shahi Imam.
Strategically located adjacent to the Red Fort, another iconic creation of Shah Jahan, the Jama Masjid served as the royal mosque throughout the Mughal era. Post the 1857 Revolt, despite initial threats of demolition by the British, public outcry ensured its preservation. Today, it remains under the stewardship of the Delhi Waqf Board, standing as a resplendent beacon of history and culture in the heart of Old Delhi.
Architecture
The Jama Masjid in Delhi stands as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, beautifully crafted with red sandstone and white marble in the Indo-Islamic style. This majestic mosque spans 261 feet in length and 90 feet in width, featuring an expansive courtyard capable of hosting over 25,000 worshippers. Architectural highlights include three grand arched gateways, three marble domes, four elegant towers, and two imposing minarets standing 130 feet tall, each adorned with five balconied stories.
Access to the mosque is through staircases with the eastern gateway—reserved historically for Mughal Emperors—featuring 35 steps. The northern and southern gates count 39 and 33 steps, respectively. Inside, the mosque’s floor presents a striking pattern of black and white marble, sectioning 899 spaces for individual prayers. The interiors are richly decorated with arches, intricate floral designs, and vibrant motifs, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
Significant to the Jama Masjid are cherished relics which include a deerskin Quran, a strand of hair from Prophet Mohammed’s beard, a pair of his sandals, and a marble block imprinted with his footprints, each adding to the mosque’s profound cultural and religious significance.
Present Time
The iconic Delhi Jama Masjid stands as a timeless beacon of religious and architectural splendor, captivating visitors with its centuries-old allure. As one of India’s largest mosques, it beckons travelers and devotees alike to immerse themselves in its grandeur and spirituality.
Throughout the year, this sacred site resonates with the echoes of prayers and the footsteps of pilgrims, but it truly comes alive during Id, drawing worshippers from far and wide to partake in the solemnity of the occasion. The majestic minarets, though two in number, offer a glimpse into the mosque’s storied past, with the southern minaret graciously welcoming visitors who seek to ascend its heights for a nominal fee.
As dusk descends upon the city, the mosque is bathed in a mesmerizing glow, casting a spellbinding aura that enchants all who behold it. Yet, to enter this hallowed sanctuary, one must respect tradition and dress appropriately. For those who arrive unprepared, robes await at the northern gate, ensuring that every visitor can experience the sanctity of the Delhi Jama Masjid in its full magnificence.
Fascinating Facts About Jama Masjid, Delhi
- Last Marvel of Shah Jahan: Built during the reign of Shah Jahan, Jama Masjid stands as one of his final architectural masterpieces.
- Gate Usage Protocol: In Shah Jahan’s era, the eastern gate was exclusively for the emperor, the northern gate for nobles, and the southern gate for commoners, each reflecting the social hierarchy of the time.
- Influence on Badshahi Masjid: Aurangzeb, Shah Jahan’s son, drew inspiration from Jama Masjid when designing the layout for the iconic Badshahi Masjid in Lahore.
- Madrasa and 1857 Revolt: Prior to the 1857 Revolution, Jama Masjid housed a madrasa within its premises. Sadly, during the revolt, the madrasa was destroyed.
- Generous Restoration: In 1948, the last Nizam of Hyderabad donated generously for the restoration of Jama Masjid, ensuring the entire mosque’s floor was renovated to maintain its grandeur.
- Size Misconception: While often mistaken as the largest mosque in India, Jama Masjid in Delhi is overshadowed by the Taj-ul-Masjid in Bhopal, which boasts a capacity of 175,000 worshippers.
- Strategic Location: Positioned in alignment with Connaught Place and Parliament House, Jama Masjid holds not only religious significance but also plays a role in the city’s architectural layout.
Attractions Near Jama Masjid, Delhi
- Chandni Chowk Market: A bustling market just 220 meters away.
- Shri Digamber Jain Lal Mandir: A beautiful Jain temple just 750 meters away.
- Red Fort: Iconic Mughal architecture only 1 km from Jama Masjid.
- Fatehpuri Masjid: Another stunning mosque, just 1.7 km away.
- Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib: A significant Sikh shrine at 2.1 km distance.
- Gauri Shankar Mandir: A Hindu temple just 2.4 km away.
- Stephen’s Church: A historic church at 2.6 km distance.
- Raj Ghat: Memorial to Mahatma Gandhi, 2.7 km away.
- Khari Baoli Spice Market: A vibrant spice market at 2.8 km distance.
- India Gate: Iconic war memorial, 6.1 km away.
- Humayun’s Tomb: Mughal marvel at 9.9 km distance.
Things To Do Near Delhi Jama Masjid
- Culinary Delights: Indulge in heavenly kebabs at Aslam Chicken Corner and Qureshi.
- Sweet Treats: Try desserts at Cool Point.
- Shopping Spree: Explore Kinari Bazaar for wedding shopping, Dariba Kalan Market for jewelry, Nai Sarak for books, and Khari Baoli for spices.