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Jama Masjid or the Friday Mosque is renowned for being the largest Mosque in India. Situated in Old Delhi, Jama Masjid has every reason for being another tourist attraction in Delhi. The best time to experience the glory of Jama Masjid is in the months of February and March.
This brilliant mosque is also known for being the last architectural brilliance offered by the great Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. The courtyard of Jama Masjid is capable enough to hold around 25,000 devotees at a time. Jama Masjid is situated across the road from the Red Fort.
It is said that Jama Masjid was built in the year 1656 as a result of the religious enthusiasm of the Mughals. Everyday, Jama Masjid witnesses thousands of faithful devotees offering their prayers.
Jama Masjid is also known as “Masjid-i-Jahanuma”, which means the Mosque that commands a view over the world. It took about five thousand artisans to build this monument over a period of 13 years. It is said that close to One Million rupees were spent on building this monument.
This outstanding structure is situated on one of the two hills of Shahjahanabad, the old capital city of Mughals. The main structure of the mosque contains 3 red sandstone gates and a roof covered with 3 marvelous domes. The topmost part of the mosque is covered with gold.
Jama Masjid is considered as one of the most auspicious religious stop for Muslims as the closet in the North gate of the Mosque houses the collection of Prophet Muhammad's relics. These relics include a copy of the Quran written on deer skin, prophet’s sandals, a red beard-hair of the prophet, and foot prints installed in marble.
Tourists coming to this part of the city can relish various Mughlai delicacies. Karim’s is among the most popular restaurants that offers great Mughlai dishes. Tourists can also grab traditional handicrafts that are sold in the mosque premises.
First time visitors must know that it is important to cover your head and take off the shoes before entering the mosque. You are also requested to wash your feet before entering this religious premise.
The main courtyard of Jama Masjid is a red stone courtyard that can be reached by three gateways. There is a large marble tank at the center of the courtyard that is used for the purpose of cleansing before entering the mosque for offering prayers. The courtyard of the mosque is worth viewing as it is often covered with birds. The raised platform called Dikka is situated at the front of the mosque.
Dargah Sharief, Cheraman Juma Masjid, Haji Ali Mosque, and Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chishti are aother popular mosques in India.
