The Shah Jahan Mosque, also known as the Jamia Mosque of Thatta, is a 17th-century mosque located in the city of Thatta in the Pakistani province of Sindh. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1647 and is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Mughal architecture in the region.
It is a large structure, with a central courtyard measuring 42 meters by 32 meters, and has a total of 93 domes. The mosque is a popular tourist destination and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Graana.com brings you all you need to know about Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta.
Overview
The Shah Jahan Mosque was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1647, during the height of the Mughal Empire. It was built to honour the memory of his father, Jahangir, who had died in 1627. The Shah Jahan Mosque has seen a number of renovations over the years, and its original form is no longer intact.
However, the mosque still stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Empire. Today, the mosque is still a place of worship for the local community and is an important part of their history and culture.
It was intended as a gift for the residents of Thatta as a way of saying “thank you” for opening their homes and hearts to Shah Jahan during his brief visit.
Location
The Shah Jahan Mosque is located near the National Highway (N5) at its intersection with Sujawal-Thatta Road on the eastern outskirts of Thatta.
It is approximately 100 kilometres away from Karachi. The mosque’s main entrance is marked with a fountain and an outside garden.
Construction
The Shah Jahan Mosque is one of the few Mughal-era mosques in Pakistan that depict a construction style that is reflective of that era. However, this particular mosque was influenced not just by Mughal architecture but also by Sindhi, Persian, Timurid, and Indian styles of construction that have made it a unique marvel.
The mosque is said to have been constructed using red sandstone, and its walls are intricately decorated with blue and white tile work. The mosque is a large structure, with a central courtyard measuring 42 meters by 32 meters, and has a total of 93 domes.
The construction of the mosque was a laborious task and took a total of three years to complete. It was commissioned by Shah Jahan himself and is said to have been built under the supervision of the architect Ustad Hamid.
The mosque is known for its intricate and detailed design, which includes intricate carvings, a large fountain in the center of the courtyard, and a monumental entrance with a grand arch.
In addition to this, the mosque also boasts of a large number of minarets, which are believed to have been added as part of the Mughal emperor’s own personal touch. The mosque is a testament to the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.
Unique features
The Shah Jahan Mosque is one of the most impressive examples of mosques in Pakistan. The mosque is known for its intricate and detailed design. The mosque has No frescoes and No minarets. It has a Praying capacity for 20,000 individuals and offers natural ventilation throughout the interior.
The overall construction cost 9 lakh rupees at that time. The mosque is adorned with floral motifs, geometric designs, and calligraphy that truly make it a unique and beautiful sight to behold.
The mosque is also known for its unique acoustics, which allows prayers to be heard throughout the courtyard without the use of technology and make it a truly unique experience. It is one of the most beautiful mosques.
Few Mughal-era mosques in Pakistan can compare to this architectural marvel, which is unknown to most people and is even less frequently visited. Further modifications were made by Murad Ali Khan Talpur in 1812 and Emperor Aurangzeb in 1692.
The eastern section of the mosque was finished in 1659, a year after the rest of the building. The most recent modifications were carried out in the 1960s and 1970s, although a few more were made during the British era.
The Shah Jahan mosque in Thatta is a great tourist attraction you must visit with your friends and family. It will give you a great learning experience and a walk down the lane of history. The mosque speaks for the Mughal grandeur and exquisite design.
For more informative content on historic mosques like faisal masjid, visit the Graana blog.
FAQs
Here are some FAQs related to Shah Jahan Mosque in Thatta
When was the Shah Jahan Mosque built?
The Shah Jahan Mosque was built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century.
Who commissioned the construction of the Shah Jahan Mosque?
The construction of the Shah Jahan Mosque was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan himself.
What is the architectural style of the Shah Jahan Mosque?
The Shah Jahan Mosque showcases a magnificent blend of Mughal and Persian architectural styles.
What is the significance of the Shah Jahan Mosque?
The Shah Jahan Mosque holds historical and cultural significance as one of the oldest and most well-preserved mosques in Pakistan.
How is the Shah Jahan Mosque maintained?
The maintenance of the Shah Jahan Mosque is carried out by relevant authorities to ensure its preservation and upkeep.
Are there any restrictions on visiting the Shah Jahan Mosque?
Visitors to the Shah Jahan Mosque are expected to follow certain rules and guidelines, such as modest dress code and respectful behavior.
Can the Shah Jahan Mosque be visited by non-Muslims?
Yes, the Shah Jahan Mosque is open to visitors of all religions and backgrounds.
What are the notable features of the Shah Jahan Mosque?
The Shah Jahan Mosque features intricate marble work, beautiful frescoes, and a spacious courtyard.
Is the Shah Jahan Mosque a popular tourist attraction?
Yes, the Shah Jahan Mosque attracts a significant number of tourists who are interested in its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
How can I reach the Shah Jahan Mosque?
The Shah Jahan Mosque is located in Thatta, Pakistan. It can be reached by road or public transportation from nearby cities.
