Motijheel Mosque
The Motijheel Mosque, also historically known as Kala Masjid (Black Mosque) or Jama Masjid of Motijheel, is an important historical and religious structure located on the western bank of the Motijheel lake. It was constructed around 1750 CE by Nawazish Muhammad Khan, the son-in-law of Nawab Alivardi Khan and the builder of the entire Motijheel complex. The mosque was named 'Shahamat Jang' after Nawazish Muhammad Khan's title. The name Kala Masjid is possibly derived from the black basalt stone used in parts of the adjacent Sang-i-Dalan Palace or the dark appearance of the brickwork. It is a rectangular, three-bayed structure covered by three hemispherical domes. The mosque holds immense historical significance as it serves as the burial site for its builder, Nawazish Muhammad Khan, and his adopted son, Ekramulla (younger brother of Siraj ud-Daulah), who died young, possibly from smallpox. It is believed that Nawab Alivardi Khan used to frequent this mosque to offer prayers. Despite being a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and still being an active place of worship where five prayers are offered daily, the mosque's structure is a poignant reminder of the Mughal architectural style prevalent in Bengal. The detailed stucco ornamentation within the prayer hall is a notable feature. The mosque completes the historical and religious significance of the Motijheel complex.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30 minutesPlace Type:
Historical Mosque, Religious SiteEntry Fees:
Entry is Generally Free: As an active religious structure and part of the ASI-protected Motijheel complex, there is typically no separate entry fee for the mosque itself. The nominal entry fee paid for the Motijheel Park complex generally covers access to the mosque compoun...Entry is Generally Free: As an active religious structure and part of the ASI-protected Motijheel complex, there is typically no separate entry fee for the mosque itself. The nominal entry fee paid for the Motijheel Park complex generally covers access to the mosque compound.
Donations for Maintenance: While there is no mandatory fee, being an active mosque, visitors are welcome to contribute voluntary donations (Chanda) towards the mosque's upkeep and maintenance, a common practice at religious sites in India.
Photography and Video: There is usually no fee for photography, but professional or commercial photography/videography might require special permission from the ASI or local authorities. Simple personal photography is generally allowed without charge.Timing:
Regular Timings: The mosque is generally open from Sunrise to Sunset. As an active mosque, it is open for the five daily prayers (Namaz) throughout the day. Visitors should be mindful of prayer times, especially during the Friday congregational prayer.
Read MoreRegular Timings: The mosque is generally open from Sunrise to Sunset. As an active mosque, it is open for the five daily prayers (Namaz) throughout the day. Visitors should be mindful of prayer times, especially during the Friday congregational prayer.
Ideal Visit Time: The early morning hours (8:00 AM to 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) are ideal to avoid the midday sun and the rush of visitors. Visiting outside of main prayer times ensures a quiet environment for exploration and photography.
Friday Congregration: On Fridays, the mosque will be busiest around 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM for the weekly Jummah Namaz. Non-worshippers should plan their visit around this time to maintain respect for the congregation.Special Events:
Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha Prayers: Like all major mosques, the Motijheel Mosque sees a significant increase in congregation and a festive atmosphere during the annual celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr (marking the end of Ramadan) and Eid-ul-Adha. Special prayers (Namaz) are off...Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha Prayers: Like all major mosques, the Motijheel Mosque sees a significant increase in congregation and a festive atmosphere during the annual celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr (marking the end of Ramadan) and Eid-ul-Adha. Special prayers (Namaz) are offered, and the area becomes a vibrant hub of religious activity and community gathering.Best Photo Spots:
The Three Domes from a Distance: Stand a little back in the Motijheel park to capture the three domes of the mosque rising above the surrounding greenery. This vantage point emphasizes the mosque's architectural symmetry and stature within the complex.
Read MoreThe Three Domes from a Distance: Stand a little back in the Motijheel park to capture the three domes of the mosque rising above the surrounding greenery. This vantage point emphasizes the mosque's architectural symmetry and stature within the complex.
The Central Archway: Focus on the central, larger Iwan of the facade, capturing the intricate stucco work and the flanking slender minarets. This close-up highlights the detailed craftsmanship of the entrance.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Observe the Mughal Architecture: Spend time closely examining the mosque's exterior and interior. Notice the three domes, the intricate stucco decoration on the walls, the jagged arch edges, and the construction details of the octagonal minarets, which are excellent examples of 18th-century Murshidabad style.
Pay Respect at the Graves: Visit the graves of Nawazish Muhammad Khan and Ekramulla in the compound. Reflect on their lives and roles in the history of the Nawabi era, especially the tragic circumstances of young Ekramulla's death and the subsequent sorrow of Ghaseti Begum.
Offer Prayers (If Applicable): Since it is an active Friday mosque (Jama Masjid), visitors of the Islamic faith can offer prayers here, participating in a tradition that dates back to the time of Nawab Alivardi Khan...
Information
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Why Famous:
Tomb of Nawazish Muhammad Khan: The mosque is famously known as the burial site for its builder, Nawazish Muhammad Khan, and his adopted son Ekramulla. This association with key figures of the Nawabi court makes it historically prominent, linking it to the family drama surr...Tomb of Nawazish Muhammad Khan: The mosque is famously known as the burial site for its builder, Nawazish Muhammad Khan, and his adopted son Ekramulla. This association with key figures of the Nawabi court makes it historically prominent, linking it to the family drama surrounding Ghaseti Begum and Siraj ud-Daulah.
Architectural Significance: As an 18th-century mosque in Bengal, it represents a specific style of Mughal architecture, characterized by its three domes and elaborate stucco work. Its designation as a Monument of National Importance by the ASI also highlights its architectural and historical value.
Part of the Motijheel Complex: Its location within the greater Motijheel (Pearl Lake) and Company Bagh complex makes it an inseparable part of the major historical tourist destination, easily accessible to all visitors exploring the palace ruins and the lake. -
Architecture:
Rectangular Plan and Triple Domes: The mosque follows a rectangular plan, a common style in the region. Its roof is adorned with three prominent hemispherical domes. The central dome is larger than the two flanking ones, and all are topped with lotus and kalash finials, sh...Rectangular Plan and Triple Domes: The mosque follows a rectangular plan, a common style in the region. Its roof is adorned with three prominent hemispherical domes. The central dome is larger than the two flanking ones, and all are topped with lotus and kalash finials, showcasing classical Islamic architectural motifs.
Fascade and Entrances Dimension: The eastern faade features a three-arched entrance. The central archway (Iwan) is larger and projects forward, flanked by two slender minarets, adding to the visual grandeur. The total structure is approximately 135 feet long. The exterior walls are decorated with intricate stucco work, tiered arches, and jagged arch edges.
Interior Ornamentation and Minarets: The interior main prayer hall is a three-bayed space, richly decorated with elegant stucco ornamentation, floral bands, and cornice work. The four corners of the rectangular structure are marked by two-stage octagonal minarets. The base of the octagonal minarets has an overhang supported by brackets, a detail that adds structural and aesthetic complexity. The mosque is primarily constructed of brick. -
How To Reach:
By Air, Train, and Road: The approach is the same as for Motijheel (See Motijheel How to Reach, Serial No. 1). The mosque is located within the Motijheel complex, so all transport leads to the park entrance.
By Local Transport: From the ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Motijheel (Pearl Lake) (Negligible distance, it is inside the complex) 2. Hazarduari Palace & Museum (Approx. 3 KMS) 3. Imambara (Nizamat Imambara) (Approx. 3 KMS) 4. Jahan Kosha Cannon (Approx. 3 KMS) 5. Wasef Manzil (Approx. 3. 5 KMS) 6. Katra Mosque (Approx. 5 KMS) 7. Jafarganj Cemetery (Approx. 4. 5 KMS) 8. Kathgola Gardens & Palace (Approx. 5 KMS) 9. Fauti Mosque (Approx. 6 KMS) 10. Khushbagh Cemetery (Across the river, approx. 4 KMS by road/ferry)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be respectful of the religious nature of the site.
Packing: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a place of worship. Women may need to cover their heads before entering the prayer hall.
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