Having survived the ravages of time the Begumpuri masjid stands till date in complete magnificence but also fully neglected. The well planned once beautiful looking Begumpuri masjid was carelessly abandoned to reduce to ruin by Muhammad Bin Tughlaq.
Begumpuri Masjid design
Begumpuri Masjid Jahanpanah was designed to encompass entire Delhi’s well planned buildings in a grandiloquent manner but like several other plans of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, the Jahanpanah masjid was incomplete half way through. The Masjid did not see the face of completion just like several other incomplete ventures by Muhammad bin Tughlaq.
The fortress walls are colossal in size. As a matter of fact the size of these walls is so huge and broad that they have rooms that were once used to store provisions and war equipment. Today the walls along with the incomplete ruins of the Masjid remain standing tall but completely abandoned. The ever expanding Delhi has even posed a threat of encroachment to the surrounding area of the masjid.
The Begumpuri Masjid Jahanpanah holds a great historical story behind its existence which is also a reason why it makes a mark in the list of places that are a must visit in Delhi tour package. The Masjid or mosque was a symbol of grace and grandeur and from the work of art used in its making it clearly show cases the fact that it was meant for the top notches of the period. The mosque was more than a place of worship. It was a communal hub and attracted a massive social gathering. The mosque was where the treasury remained and the Madrasa too.
Begumpuri Masjid History
Mosque was where businessmen met to discuss business deals and the grain market used to be set up outside the mosque entrance. Built in a typical Spartan Tughlaq style the mosque comprises of a huge courtyard and is surrounded by cloisters of arcade. It’s cool and breezy interiors were quiet and serene and they continue to be so as they were. The Masjid undoubtedly was a place where devotees came to spend time in silence and peace.
As you climb up to the mosque you will notice its huge pointed dome which suddenly pops out of the doorway appearing like it was hiding behind the doorways. Initially there were forty four smaller domes but with the pass of time you some have either fallen or ruined. You will find yourself greeted to twenty four arched openings that have a very interesting façade. There are tapering minarets on the sides of the mosque which are typical characteristic features of Tughlaq style of architecture.
There are steps that lead to the top of the mosque offering you a splendid view of the surrounding especially the Bijai Mandal that’s just next door. The mosque faces threat from real estate grabbers and ever expanding urban area of Delhi as that’s where the ruins and remains of the Begumpuri Masjid Jahanpanahstand. For tourists it’shighly recommended that you visit the place before it falls prey to the encroachment threats and possibly disappear erasing a great history along with it.
