Nili Masjid

Who built the Nili Masjid? Let’s unravel this mystery together at this hidden gem in Delhi’s Hauz Khas Enclave. Nili Masjid, also known as the “Blue Mosque,” stands as a quiet testament to a bygone era. It’s tucked away, almost like a secret, in this bustling neighborhood of posh apartments and broad roads. Nili Masjid offers a peaceful retreat, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy of the surrounding Hauz Khas market. This mosque dates back to the Lodi era, specifically to the reign of Sikandar Lodi. The inscription above its central archway reveals a fascinating story. It tells us that Nili Masjid was built around 1505-1506 AD by a woman named Kasumbhil. Kasumbhil was the nurse of Fath Khan, the son of a powerful official, Khan-i-Azam Masnad Ali Khawas Khan, who governed Delhi at that time. While much of the original structure is lost to time, the central dome remains, along with portions of the walls. What’s remarkable is that Nili Masjid is not just a historical relic. It’s a living mosque where people continue to offer prayers. This has led to the addition of modern amenities like piped water and areas for ablution, slightly altering the mosque’s antique charm. You might be wondering about the “blue” in “Blue Mosque.” Originally, the facade was adorned with blue tiles, a popular decorative element of the Lodi era. You can still find traces of this bluish tinge on the tiles if you look closely, despite their decay over centuries. Nili Masjid isn’t easy to spot. One of the best ways to find it is to look for a large, new mosque on Aurobindo Road between Hauz Khas and Green Park. Opposite this mosque, a lane leads into H-Block. Walk a short distance down this lane, and the Nili Masjid will reveal itself to you. The mosque sits on an octagonal base, a characteristic feature of Lodi-era architecture. The three arches beneath the dome and the robust corner towers, reminiscent of a fort’s bastions, speak to the architectural style of that period. Inside, the walls bear inscriptions that verify its rich history. So, next time you’re in Delhi, step off the beaten path and discover Nili Masjid. It’s a peaceful sanctuary that whispers tales of a powerful woman builder in a time long past.