Taj-ul-Masjid is a 19th century mosque with a magnificent structure. The sprawling mosque is situated in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh As one of the most elegant buildings in Bhopal it stands tall with a pink facade. The words Taj-ul-Masjid literally means 'The Crown of Mosques'. True to its name it is one of the largest mosques in India and one of the most important to the Muslims in India. The building offers impressive views and is crowned with two massive white - domed minarets.
The construction of the Taj-ul-Masjid in Bhopal began under the instruction of Shah Jehan Begum but the mosque was completed after her death. With changing reigns and lack of money, the construction work had been delayed by many phases but ultimately it resulted in a beautifully adorned mosque of India. The Taj-ul-Masjid of Bhopal now serves for the religious purpose as well as a madrasa or a Islamic school. The 3 day Ijtima conglomeration attracts huge number of people every year from all corners of the country.
The Taj-ul-Masjid is constructed around a huge courtyard and a big tank in the centre. The gateway is double storeyed with four archways and nine cusped manifold openings that open in main prayer hall of the impressive Masjid. Eleven arches adorn the Quibla wall of the prayer hall. The pillars of the hall are heavily patterned with intricate designs and finally culminate topped with twenty seven ceilings. The octagonal mirrors rising to a height of eighteen storeys are a marvel in itself.
Last Updated on 23 July 2012
