The scent of history lingers here at the Triplicane Big Mosque also known as Wallajah Mosque. This isn’t just a mosque. It is a testament to Chennai’s diverse past.
The Triplicane Big Mosque stands proudly on Triplicane High Road. It is a significant landmark in Chennai. Imagine the year 1795. Muhammad Ali Khan Wallajah, the Nawab of Arcot, oversaw its construction. His family ensured its creation in the Mughal architectural style.
Granite forms the core of the Masjid Allah. Builders used no iron or wood in its construction. The mosque boasts a large prayer hall. A tank provides ritual washing. A large ground stretches in front of it offering space for devotees.
The Nawab of Arcot held friendships beyond religious boundaries. He appointed a Hindu man as his chief personal secretary. Raja Makhhan Lal Bahdur Khirat, the Hindu Munshi of the Nawab, penned a Persian chronogram. This chronogram graces the entrance to the prayer hall. It is still visible today.
Consider the historical context. The Nawab moved to Chepauk in 1768. About 20000 Rowther Muslims accompanied him. This created South India’s largest Muslim community after Hyderabad. The Nawab held complete authority. He resolved cases under Muslim Law regardless of religion. The Masjid Allah enriched Triplicane’s cultural tapestry. It stood alongside the Parthasarathy Temple and the San Thome church.
The Prince of Arcot Endowments Trust now administers the Triplicane Big Mosque. Interestingly many administrative staff are Hindu. This symbolizes peaceful coexistence.
Look at the two minarets. They stand tall reaching 131 feet. Azam Jah renovated the mosque. He modified the minarets and added golden finials. The mosque is the largest in Chennai from its establishment.
Step inside. The image of Persian scholar Barool welcomes you. He arrived from Lucknow to educate the royal family. The chronogram written by Raja Makhhan Lal Bahdur Khirat is still found at the prayer hall entrance.
Walk to the west of the sanctum. Mausoleums honor important figures linked to the royal family. Today the Masjid Allah remains an active place of worship. It accommodates thousands of devotees. During Bakrid and Ramzan the grounds overflow with worshippers.
The grave of Qaid-e-Millat M. Muhammad Ismail Sahib lies in front of the mosque.