In the realm of rich cultural and religious diversity, India stands as the dwelling place for numerous architectural marvels that vividly portray the historical and spiritual essence of the nation. Within this tapestry, mosques occupy a distinct position, epitomising the flourishing Islamic heritage across diverse regions. The year 2024 marks our journey to delve into the five largest mosques in India, each standing as a testament to the architectural mastery and religious inclusivity embraced by the country.
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List of Top 5 Largest Mosques In India 2024
In the year 2024, the Bara Imambara in Lucknow claims the distinction of being India's largest mosque. Constructed in 1784, this architectural masterpiece proudly accommodates up to 300,000 worshippers:
Rank | Name | Capacity | Area (m2) | City | Country | Year Completed | Denomination |
1 | Bara Imambara | 300,000 | - | Lucknow | India | 1784 | Shia |
2 | Taj-ul-Masajid | 175,000 | 23,000 | Bhopal | India | 1901 | Sunni |
3 | Jamia Masjid | - | Jammu and Kashmir | India | 1400 | Sunni | |
4 | Jama Masjid | 25,000 | - | Central Delhi | India | 1656 | Sunni |
5 | Aqsa Mosque | 15,000 | - | Qadian | India | 1876 | Ahmadi |
Abounding in a myriad of mosques, India is renowned for structures celebrated for their elegant architectural style and splendid design, captivating the admiration of the populace. These Indian mosques distinguish themselves notably through a captivating blend of simplicity and style, serving as a testament to the unparalleled mastery of Indian architecture and embodying a symbol of the nation's religious diversity. Moreover, they serve as poignant reminders of India's wealthy history and cultural heritage.
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List of Biggest Mosques In India
1. Bara Imambara
Location: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Year: This was built by Asaf ud Daula in 1784.
Capacity: Around 300,000 during prayer time
Constructed in Lucknow by Nawab Asaf-Ud-Dowlah, the Bara Imambara serves a noble purpose, standing as one of the most magnificent structures in the city. The term 'Bara' translates to 'big', rightfully categorising it among the largest mosques across the entirety of India. A distinctive feature of this mosque lies in its construction, utilising small bricks that contribute to its enduring strength, allowing the structure to stand firm to this day.
2. Taj-ul-Masajid
Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
Year: Completed around 1985
Capacity: It can accommodate around 1,75,000 people at the same time.
Situated in Bhopal, this Islamic religious site took shape during the rule of Nawab Shah Jahan Begum. Receiving its finishing touches in 1985, it has since become one of the most frequented and revered mosques across the entirety of India.
3. Jamia Masjid
Location: Srinagar, Jammu And Kashmir
Year: Around 1400
Capacity: Around 33,333
Situated in the central area of Nowhatta in Srinagar, the Jamia Masjid stands as a renowned mosque with a history spanning over 600 years. Nestled in a historic precinct that has been a witness to numerous pivotal events, this quaint mosque holds a significant place in the chronicles of the region. It can be asserted with certainty that the narrative of Jamia Masjid encapsulates the unfolding history of political uprisings in Kashmir.
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4. Jama Masjid
Location: New Delhi, India
Year: Built by Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan around 1656 AD
Capacity: This famous mosque in India can accommodate 25,000 persons
Earning acclaim as one of Delhi's premier attractions, the Jama Masjid stands out for its grand architecture and expansive grounds. As the largest mosque in India, it can accommodate over 25,000 individuals during the annual Muslim prayers. Additionally, it ranks among the world's most renowned Muslim religious sites.
5. Aqsa Mosque
Location: Ahmadiyya Mohallah, Qadian, Punjab
Year: 1876
Capacity: 15,000
The Aqsa Mosque, also known as Masjid Aqsa in Urdu (مسجدِ اقصیٰ), holds the distinction of being the largest and oldest mosque in Qadian, India. Nestled within the compound of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad's ancestral residence, near the White Minaret, it is situated in the Ahmadiyya Mohallah of Qadian.
Constructed in 1876 by Mirza Ghulam Murtaza, the father of Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the founder of the Ahmadiyya movement, the mosque has undergone multiple renovations and expansions throughout the 20th century under the stewardship of the Ahmadiyya administration. From its initial capacity of 200, the mosque's size has been augmented, culminating in a remarkable increase to accommodate 15,000 worshippers by the year 2014.
Note: This list will include mosques that are largest by capacity rather than area and have been compiled from various online sources.
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