History of The Jama Masjid
Designed and planned by Ostad Khalil, Jama Masjid was commissioned on July 23, 1656, when Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan moved his capital to Delhi from Agra after the death of his wife. Syed Abdul Ghafoor Shah Bukhrail, an Imam from Uzbekistan, inaugurated the mosque. A 'madrasa' near the southern end of the mosque was destroyed during the revolt of 1857, and the mosque was confiscated with the intention of demolition, but the British government had to retreat due to severe protests and opposition. It is almost a replica of Moti Masjid in Agra.
Architecture of Jama Masjid
Facing westwards, towards the holy city of Mecca, this grand and impressive mosque has three gates facing north, south and east and is visible from a distance of up to five kilometres. The eastern gateway is the largest and is closed on weekdays. Standing tall on a thirty feet high red sandstone porch, the Jama Masjid has a massive archway to the centre which welcomes you with the words, "The Guide". The roof encapsulates three black and white marble domes flanked by a couple of forty meter high minarets. Each of the minarets is a hundred and thirty step climb, but only the southern gate is open to the public for a nominal fee.
The Eastern Gate of Jama Masjid had thirty-five steps and was initially used as a reserved entrance for Mughal Emperors and then later for royal visitors and Viceroy of India during the British rule. It is octagonal, and the roof is decorated with honeycomb carvings. The gate is 15.4 meters high and has a massive opening with three archways. There is also a projected balcony on the other side of the gate. The northern gate has thirty-nine steps and was initially meant for nobles. The southern gate with thirty-three steps was the only gate accessible to the common public. The northern and southern gates are smaller in size with seventeen arched openings on each side.
The open courtyard in front of the Jama Masjid has an ablution tank with a fountain in the centre. The ablution tank has been installed for the rituals to be performed before the Namaz. There is a Sandstone platform for the 'Muazzin' (one who gives the call for the prayers) in front of the tank and also a couple of sundials in the courtyard.The main shrine has been divided into two halls which have been further split into seven bays of ornamental pillars. The floor of the mosque is beautifully decorated with black marbles, and there are 899 markings for devotees.
Best time to visit Jama Masjid, Delhi
Jama Masjid is most vibrant during the festival of Eid. The buzz on the streets of Jama Masjid and Chandni Chowk multiply tenfold during the month of Ramadan. Iftar meals are served to everyone at the mosque and numerous stalls serving delicious street food pop-up on the streets. Don't miss out on exquisite kebabs on the streets.
Best time to visit the mosque is before 12 o'clock at noon and between 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The most important prayer is held right before sunset between 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM and you may want to visit at this time if you are planning to take part in the Namaz offerings.
How to Reach Jama Masjid, Delhi
Jama Masjid station on the violet line is the nearest metro station almost three hundred meters away. Chawri Bazar metro station on the yellow line is five hundred meters from the mosque. There is a dedicated DTC bus stop at Jama Masjid and also the Red Fort (600 meters) with AC and Non-AC buses plying to almost all parts of the city.
If you plan to come by your vehicle, Red Fort Parking on Shantivana Marg would be the best option. You could also consider Parade Ground Parking near the Cycle Market.
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Shopping in Jama Masjid, Delhi
Chandni Chowk, which is situated near Jama Masjid, is one of the best street shopping localities in the country. The Bazaar Chitli Qabar is full of street vendors selling everything from balloons to food items. Meena Bazar Market is another paradise for shopping. Travelers may also hire robes before visiting the mosque outside the North gate.
Best Restaurants Nearby
Karim's is one of most famous eating joints of Delhi, located couple of hundred meters away from the mosque. This place becomes a street food paradise during the time of Iftar when the lane opposite to the mosque is filled with beef biriyani, excellent kebabs, keema samosas and Rooh Afza sharbat.
Tips
1. Leave your footwear outside the mosque for a minimal change. Don't pay any money to enter the mosque.2. Dress up conservatively and avoid wearing shorts and skirts. 3. Tourists are not allowed inside the mosque during prayer time.
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