“Friday Mosque.” That’s another name for what we’re standing in front of. This is Masjid Alfatah. It stands as a testament to Delhi’s rich history. Are you ready to delve into its story?
Masjid Alfatah isn’t just any mosque. It is a 17th-century Sunni mosque. The Masjid Alfatah graces the western end of Chandni Chowk. Chandni Chowk is the oldest street in Old Delhi. After Jama Masjid, it is Delhi’s second-largest mosque.
Let’s rewind to 1650. Fatehpuri Begum built this mosque. She was one of Emperor Shah Jahan’s wives. She hailed from Fatehpur Sikri. Another mosque at the Taj Mahal shares her name.
Now, for a twist. After the 1857 war, the British auctioned the Masjid Alfatah. Rai Lala Chunnamal bought it for Rs 19000. His descendants still live in Chandni Chowk. They preserved the Masjid Alfatah. In 1877, the Government acquired it. They exchanged it for four villages. The British restored it to the Muslims at the Delhi Durbar. They allowed Muslims back into Old Delhi at that time.
Did you know that Asia’s largest spice market, Khari Baoli, developed after the mosque’s construction? It grew gradually around the Masjid Alfatah.
Let’s talk about leadership. Mufti Mukarram Ahmad is the chief mufti now. He is the hereditary imam of the Masjid Alfatah. He succeeded his father. His father was Maulana Mufti Mohammad Ahmad.
Here’s a somber note. The grave of Maulana Abdul Qadir Ludhianvi’s wife lies in the courtyard. He was a rebel leader. The Masjid Alfatah holds stories of sorrow too.
Notice the red sandstone. The Masjid Alfatah is built from it. It features a fluted dome. It has mahapadma and kalash finials. Twin minarets flank the mosque. It has a traditional design. The prayer hall has seven arched openings. Single and double-storeyed apartments stand on the sides. The central iwan has three arches on each side.
Masjid Alfatah is more than bricks and stone. It embodies centuries of stories. It reflects faith and resilience. It represents Delhi’s vibrant past. Take a moment to soak it all in.