Agra

Jama Masjid Agra

Jama Masjid Agra

Feb 21, 2023

Everything about the Jama Masjid is surreal, from its design to its architecture. Maybe that is why it has been compared to Baitul-Mamur, a pearls and rubies studded mosque believed to be located in Jannah (heaven). Built by Shah Jahan in 1648 AD, it was dedicated to his daughter, Jahanara Begum. The perfection in its art and design makes it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Agra.

Located just opposite the Agra Fort, the Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India. It is constructed on a large platform that is accessible by a flight of 35 steps. Indeed, its enormous size makes it visible from a distance and attracts believers from afar. It is a monument that evokes wonder and awe and is of immense cultural and historical importance.

History of Jama Masjid Agra

The Jama Masjid was built by Shah Jahan for his favorite daughter Jahan Ara Begum. Its construction began in 1648 and took six years to complete with the efforts of five thousand workers. The mosque had a large open area in its front, known as the Tripoli Chowk. This octagonal chowk existed between Jama Masjid and the Delhi Gate of Agra Fort. However, this Chowk was destroyed from 1871-to 1873, to give room to Agra Fort Railway Station. The gateway otherwise known as the "Buland Darwaza" to the mosque was added after Shah Jahan's comprehensive victory in the Kadesh military campaign. A lot of the engravings are in Persian.

Architecture of Jama Masjid Agra

Jama Masjid, one of the incredible places to visit in Uttar Pradesh, was constructed using red sandstone along with marble decorations to accompany it. It consists of a large courtyarthatch embraced by cloisters on three sides. The beauty of the courtyard is enhanced by the presence of a fountain with four kiosks. These have engrailed arches that stand on pillars. A prayer chamber can also be found on the western side.

The dome, which is an essential feature of Islamic architecture, also finds its presence in this structure. Here, they are fitted with inverted lotus and Kalash finials on the top along with narrow zigzag patterning of white marble.

Another noticeable feature of this magnificent mosque is its central portal, which consists of Persian inscriptions in white marble inlaid with black stone.

Interesting Facts about Jama Masjid Agra

  • Construction of the Jama Masjid took around six years and required the involvement of 5000 workers.
  • It is one of the largest mosques in India and is also known as Jami Mosque.
  • The mosque was once surrounded by a sprawling octagonally-shaped market. However, it was later demolished for the installation of railway tracks.
  • An engraving of the Jama Masjid makes its appearance in Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book.

Friday Prayer at Jama Masjid

Special Namaz is conducted at Jama Masjid every Friday, and is attended by devotees in large numbers. This is the only day when this place sees huge crowds which remain quite empty and serene on the other days. Jama Masjid is considered to be very sacred by the Muslims; hence tourists are expected to observe silence when they go to the mosque.

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