Imagine, if you will, a time long ago. Feroz Shah Tughlaq ruled Delhi. His prime minister was Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah. Together they shaped the city with grand monuments. We are standing before one of their creations: the Khirki Masjid.
Khirki Masjid. The Mosque of Windows. This unique structure stands in Khirki Village. It is a testament to the Tughlaq dynasty’s architectural prowess. The Archaeological Survey of India now protects this monument. It is a reminder of Delhi’s rich past.
The word “Khirki” means “window” in Urdu. The mosque gets its name from the many arched windows. These windows have perforated screens. They are called jalis. These windows let light and air filter through.
Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah was a prolific builder. He and Feroz Shah Tughlaq built many structures. These included tombs, forts, and mosques. Khan-i-Jahan is credited with seven unique monuments.
Built in the city of Jahanpanah, Khirki Masjid is unique. It showcases the Tughluqid architectural style. There are no inscriptions giving the exact construction date. But the name of the builder is inscribed on the eastern gate. It reads: Khan-e-Jahan Junaan Shah. Scholars estimate it was built between 1351 and 1354. Feroz Shah Tughlaq ordered its construction. It was his contribution to the capital.
The Khirki Masjid has a square plan. It measures 52 by 52 meters. It rises on a plinth of 3 meters. Four open courtyards punctuate the structure. Arcades surround these courtyards. There are 180 square columns and 60 pilasters. They divide the space into aisles. The courtyards provide light and ventilation.
The roof is divided into 25 squares. Each square contains nine small domes. This makes a total of 81 domes. Twelve flat roofs alternate with the domes. Minarets adorn the four corners of the Khirki Masjid. Three protruding gateways mark the entrances. Tapering turrets flank each gate. The southern gate has imposing steps. It shows a blend of arch and trabeated construction.
The main gate leads to the qibla. This is on the western wall. A projecting mihrab marks the direction of Mecca. Above the first floor are arch windows. These “Khirkis” have stone screens. They are a defining feature of the mosque. The foyer in front of the mihrab is dimly lit. Light from the latticed windows does not reach this space. The east gate provides access to the roof. The view from the roof reveals the mosque’s geometrical design.
The walls of Khirki Masjid are rubble masonry. They have a plastered surface. Inside, the walls are plain. But they feature carved stone screens. This symmetrical design is an architectural marvel. It is one of the finest compositions of the Sultanate period. It was considered Firuz Shah’s architectural gift.
Khirki Masjid’s elegance paved the way. It was a precursor to Mughal architecture. The Lodhi period marked the transition.
Over time, some domes collapsed. Some walls fell into disrepair. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage recognized its importance. They categorized it as “Grade A.” The Archaeological Survey of India began restoration work.
Initial restoration efforts sparked controversy. The ASI used lime mortar incorrectly. This gave the monument a pink hue. Heritage experts protested. The ASI suspended work. They held a workshop on lime mortar use.
In 2018, archaeologists discovered copper coins. Further restoration took place. It was completed in December 2024.
To visit the Khirki Masjid, navigate the narrow lanes of Khirki village. It’s near Saket in South Delhi. The mosque is across from the Saket Citywalk Mall. The nearest metro station is Malviya Nagar. The mosque is near other attractions. These include the Bijai Mandal Platform and the Begampur mosque.
Khirki Masjid. A window to the past. It is a testament to the vision of its builders. It continues to inspire awe.