Islam had emerged as a prominent religion in the country since ages ago. Muslim culture and tradition has been widely spread in different parts of India and Mosques of Southern India have sheltered the spiritual needs of a number of Muslim pilgrims. Over years, the mosques have been preserved and maintained as important monuments and attract a plethora of tourists irrespective of caste, creed and religion.
Mosques of Andhra Pradesh
In Andhra Pradesh, a number of mosques are situated. Jama Masjid, in Hyderabad, is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. This ancient mosque is located near the famous monument Charminar. It was built by Quli Qutub Shah in 1857. Mecca Masjid is also situated in Hyderabad. It is popular for its amazing architecture. Another mosque in the state is Hazarath Bal Mosque located in Vijayawada. It is one of the most famous pilgrimages for the Muslims of the whole country. Begumpet Mosque, in Hyderabad, was built in 1906. It exhibits magnificent architecture of Saracen style adorned with geometric patterns and intricate carvings. Village Mosque is also a famous mausoleum of the state. The mausoleum was built on the place where a plate with Muslim inscriptions was found. Bada Pahad Dargah attracts a sea of devotees from all over the country. Another magnificent mosque of Andhra Pradesh is Toli Masjid which is about 300 years old. The mosque was built in 1670 in the reign of Sultan Abdullah and represents excellent architecture.
Mosques of Karnataka
Karnataka also enlist a number of mosques. Ibrahim Rauza is a famous mausoleum of the state constructed by Ibrahim Adil Shah II. Built with beautiful architecture, the interior of the mosque houses beautiful arches embellished with inscriptional, arabesque and floral traceries. Jumma Masjid is one of the most ancient mosques of Bangalore. It exhibits excellent architecture and is decorated with ornate granite pillars. Jamia Masjid, also situated in Bangalore, was built in 1940. The mosque is dedicated to Tipu Sultan and is built with white marble of Rajasthan. Masjid E Azam is one of the most sacred place for Muslims, located in Mysore. The mosque is dedicated to the followers of the Markaz Ahle Sunnath Wal Jamath sect of Islam. Most of the structure is painted in green and exhibits beautiful architecture. Other mosques of this state include Kudroli Mosque, Noor Masjid, Sultani Masjid, Khalifa Masjid etc.
Mosques of Kerala
Juma Masjid, located near Kumarakom, is one of the most famous mosques of Kerala. It is the oldest mosque of the country, built more than 1000 years ago. Kaduvayil Thangal Dargah is another famous religious centre for Muslims. Shrine of a famous local Muslim saint known as Kaduvayil Thangal is situated here. Varambetta Mosque is located in Wayanad district and is the oldest mosque of the district. The mosque was built about 300 years ago. Another renowned mosque is Pattambi Mosque. It is famous for the annual feast arranged at the shrine known as Pattambi Nercha. Kaduvayil Juma Masjid is situated in Varkala. It is dedicated to a Muslim saint, Kaduvayil Thangal and is considered as one of the most significant Sunni pilgrimage centre. Korome Mosque Wayanad District is an ancient mosque built around 300 years ago. Traditional architecture adorns this beautiful mosque constructed by the local Nair community. Other mosques in Kerala enlist Malik Dinar Mosque, Mampuram Mosque, Mishkal Mosque, Shahre Mubarak Grand Masjid and many more.
Mosques of Tamil Nadu
Several mosques stand in the state of Tamil Nadu as the prime religious centres of Muslims. Athar Jamad Masjid is located in Coimbatore. It is an old mosque built about 100 years old. Thousand Lights Mosque, located in Chennai, was built by Nawab Umdat-ul-Umrah in the year 1810. It is one of the biggest mosques of India. The mosque is very important for the Shia Muslims. Kazimar Big Mosque is situated in Madurai and is a renowned place of worship for Muslims.
Mosques of Puducherry
Jamai Mosque is a famous mosque of Puducherry. Beautiful architecture and picturesque background make the place a famous tourist spot. Another ancient mosque of Puducherry is Meeran mosque which was built about 350 years ago. It was built by Arcod Navab in gothic Islamic Architecture. Kuthbha mosque is considered as the first mosque of this region. Mulla Moahmed Mosque is another significant mausoleum of Puducherry and is well known for its architecture.
Apart from being the religious centres these mosques are also popular for their intricate and mesmerising architecture. An amalgamation of varied architectural styles, decorative elements, and fine artistry make these mosques a delightful visit. The Mosques also contribute immensely to the cultural and national heritage of the country.
