Jama Masjid

A grand example of Mughal architectural excellence and the final architectural extravaganza of the Emperor Shahjahan, the Jama Masjid is the largest and perhaps the most magnificent mosque in India. A living grandeur of Shahjahanabad, the erstwhile city build by Shahjahan, the monument was built between 1644 and 1658 by five thousand artisans. Originally called the "Masjid-i-Jahanuma", or "Mosque commanding view of the world", this magnificent structure suggests an awesome monument to history and religion.

Like other structures of Shahjahanabad, Jama Masjid was also built with red sandstone. White marble has also been used extensively, specially in the three domes and has been inlaid with stripes of black. If you approach the mosque you discover a whole way of life, a microcosm of quintessential India in its shadow, on its steps, in the narrow streets criss-crossing, Meena Bazaar and its famous Urdu Bazzar. On the east, this monument faces the Red Fort (Lal Qila) and has three gateways, four towers and two minarets.

The plan and design of the mosque were done by the great sculptor of the time, Ostad Khalil. Shahjahan built Jama Masjid at the cost of Rs 10 crore and it can be called as the replica of Moti Masjid in Agra. The sprawling esplanade, which separates it from the arterial road, is a fascinating leisure ground. The premises of the south minaret are 1076-sq-ft wide where 25,000 devotees at a time may sit together for namaz (prayer). Jama Masjid also comprise of a great treasure that has been kept in the northeast corner of the white shrine- a hair of the beard of Hazrat Muhammad, his used chappal (slippers), a chapter of Koran taken from its original holy book, the canopy of his tombstone and the foot print of Muhammad on the stone.

The chief priest or the chief Imam of Jama Masjid is the direct descendent of the original and first Imam appointed by Shahjahan and till now there is no break in its lineage.

Visiting Jama Masjid

As it is located in the heart of New Delhi, Jama Masjid is easily accessible in many ways. Tourists planning to travel to New Delhi should not miss the chance to visit Jama Masjid. There are various local buses plying from various points within the city - Interstate Bus Terminus at Kashmere Gate and Interstate Bus Terminus at Sarai Kale Khan. Or, alternatively, they can hire auto-rickshaws and taxis for the purpose. The mosque is situated at a walking distance from the Red Fort and Chandni Chowk.

People of other religions are not allowed in between 12-30-2-00pm. For taking photographs one has to buy tickets first.