Contemplate the spiritual heart of Harrow. Harrow Central Mosque stands as a beacon of faith and community. Established in 1980, Harrow Central Mosque initially occupied a converted house. This was at no. 36 Station Road. By 1985, it expanded into the house next door. Even then, it was too small for Harrow’s growing Muslim community.
A new purpose-built mosque was built adjacent to the old one. Harrow Central Mosque opened in December 2011 at no. 34 Station Road. This provided a much larger and more suitable space. The vision was simple. The mosque would serve the needs of Muslims in Harrow and beyond.
Harrow Central Mosque has five floors. Each floor is accessible by stairs and lifts. There are even separate lifts for men and women. These lifts lead directly into the women’s prayer hall. The basement has a small car park for the Imam and mosque employees. Since 2017, Harrow Central Mosque offers free funeral services. The mortuary in the basement can store three bodies. A quiet room is available for loved ones.
The ground floor hosts the main entrances and a security office. A small kitchen prepares food for mosque events. The ground floor features a large function hall. This hall is used for weddings and other community events. During Ramadan, over 600 people break their fast here each day. People of all faiths are welcome.
The first floor is the main prayer area for men. It can accommodate up to 600 worshippers. Here, the five daily prayers are held. Monthly gatherings of remembrance also take place. Men’s washroom facilities are also on this floor. The second floor features the ladies’ prayer hall. Harrow Central Mosque is committed to providing excellent facilities for women. There is a TV in the ladies’ prayer hall. This allows worshippers to see the Imam during speeches. A madrassa for children’s education and an adult education center are on the second floor. During large congregations, the madrassa rooms are opened for prayer.
Harrow Central Mosque is more than just a building. It’s a community focal point. It is an educational center for Muslims and non-Muslims. The mosque’s teachings align with traditional Islamic beliefs. Respect is given to all four schools of Islamic jurisprudence. The prayer and worship primarily follow the Hanafi Madhab.
Harrow Central Mosque celebrates many religious festivals. These include Milad un Nabi and Layla-tul-Barat. Others are Miraj-un-Nabi and Yaum-e-Shohada. Belief in the finality of Prophet Muhammed is always preserved. The mosque welcomes everyone to experience its rich culture. It is a testament to unity and faith in Harrow.
In 2011, the under-construction Harrow Central Mosque was targeted by anti-Muslim protesters. Riot police were called in. Despite the provocation, the mosque elders urged peace. The Imam encouraged followers to resist retaliation. Harrow Central Mosque stands as a symbol of resilience. It continues to serve its community with unwavering dedication.