Nagina Masjid

Nagina Mosque is another beautiful mosque in Champaner. It is known for its intricate carvings. It is built on a high base and has three domes above its main chamber. There is also a monument nearby, which has impressive carvings. The two-story Nagina Mosque of Champaner Pavagadh is situated in the south, also known as Jewel Mosque, and named the English Jewel word, which is made of white marble.

The construction of the mosque also has intricately designed minarets, which further enhance its beauty. Three major large domes can also be seen, along with the main prayer hall.

History of Nagina Masjid

The history of Champaner is intertwined with that of Nagina Masjid. The ancient city of Champaner located in the Panchamahal district of Gujarat and very accessible from Vadodara and Ahmedabad is replete with ancient monuments that bear evidence of a rich cultural heritage from the 8th century AD when the city was first built through the Mughal rule in the 15th and 16th century AD. There are scores of monuments from different dynasties that tell graphically the history of this part of India.

Nagina Masjid is one of the most beautiful monuments in Champaner which was built in the 15th Century AD by the Sultan of this region Mahmud Bagada. During the Mughal rule, the emperor appointed Sultans in the provinces that could not be administered from Agra or Delhi because of the distance.

Mahmud Shah Bagada was thus appointed as the Governor of Gujarat. It is a beautiful specimen of artistic splendor and the name Nagina Masjid or jewel of a Masjid is very befitting.

Architecture of Nagina Masjid

This 15th-century monument built in pristine white stone is a feast to the eyes. It is built on a raised platform and has a big court-yard in the front. There is an arched gateway also made of white stone. The main building has pillars on the four corners with a central prayer hall which is 2 storeys tall and over which there are three domes; a central dome and two smaller ones.

There is a balcony on the upper floor of the prayer hall. There are openings on all four sides. On the four pillars stand minarets of exquisite beauty.

There is elaborate carving on the pillars, arches, and niches. There are also beautifully embellished windows and columns exhibiting floral and geometric patterns; a rare and unique union of Islamic and local Gujarati craftsmanship. In the area surrounding the Masjid is a step well and a beautifully decorated mausoleum. There is also a beautiful lake nearby.