Delhi-i Kuhna’s Masjid-i Jami case study

Delhi-i Kuhna’s Masjid-i Jami

In this post, notes of Unit 2: (Understanding the 10th and 14th Century Cities of Delhi– Delhi-i Kuhna’s Masjid-i Jami) from GE-1: (Delhi through Ages) are given which is helpful for the students doing graduation this year.

Exploration of the mosque’s architecture and design.

The Masjid-i Jami, also known as the Friday Mosque or Jami Mosque, in Delhi-i Kuhna (Old Delhi), is a remarkable example of Islamic architecture that dates back to the 15th century. Here’s a detailed exploration of its architecture and design:

1. Location and Historical Context: The Masjid-i Jami is located in the historic city of Delhi-i Kuhna, which was the capital of the Delhi Sultanate during the reign of Sultan Sikandar Lodi. The mosque was built during his reign in 1494 AD.
2. Architectural Style: The mosque exemplifies the Indo-Islamic architectural style, which is characterized by a fusion of Islamic and Indian architectural elements. It combines features of Islamic architecture, such as domes and minarets, with traditional Indian architectural elements like intricate carvings and use of local materials.
3. Layout and Plan: The Masjid-i Jami follows a typical mosque layout with a large courtyard surrounded by a colonnaded prayer hall (known as the “liwan”) on three sides. The fourth side contains the main entrance, which is often adorned with elaborate decorations and inscriptions from the Quran.
4. Courtyard: The courtyard of the Masjid-i Jami is spacious and serves as a gathering place for worshippers during prayer times and religious festivals. It is usually paved with stone or marble and may feature a central fountain or ablution area for ritual purification before prayers.
5. Prayer Hall (Liwan): The prayer hall is characterized by a series of domes and arches supported by pillars or columns. The central dome is often the largest and is typically located above the mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca. The walls of the prayer hall may be adorned with intricate geometric patterns, calligraphy, and floral motifs.
6. Minarets: The mosque may have one or more minarets, which are tall towers used for the call to prayer (adhan). These minarets may be square or cylindrical in shape and often feature balconies from which the muezzin (the person who calls the faithful to prayer) delivers the call to prayer.
7. Materials and Decorations: The Masjid-i Jami is typically constructed using locally available materials such as red sandstone and marble. These materials are often carved with intricate designs, including geometric patterns, arabesques, and floral motifs. Calligraphy from the Quranic verses may also adorn the walls and arches of the mosque.
8. Symbolism: Like many Islamic mosques, the Masjid-i Jami is designed to symbolize the spiritual journey of worshippers towards God. The architecture and design elements serve to create a sense of awe and reverence, inspiring worshippers to focus their minds and hearts on prayer and devotion.

Overall, the Masjid-i Jami in Delhi-i Kuhna is not only a place of worship but also a masterpiece of architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Delhi Sultanate and the synthesis of Islamic and Indian artistic traditions.

Historical background and patronage.

The historical background and patronage of Delhi-i Kuhna’s Masjid-i Jami are intertwined with the reign of Sultan Sikandar Lodi, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1489 to 1517 AD. Here’s a detailed account:

1. Sultan Sikandar Lodi: Sikandar Lodi was the second ruler of the Lodi dynasty, which rose to power after the decline of the Sayyid dynasty. He succeeded his father, Bahlul Lodi, to the throne in 1489 AD. Sikandar Lodi is known for his efforts to consolidate and expand the territories of the Delhi Sultanate.
2. Foundation of Delhi-i Kuhna: During his reign, Sikandar Lodi founded the city of Delhi-i Kuhna(old delhi), which served as the capital of the Delhi Sultanate. The city was established near the historic site of the Qila-i-Kuhna mosque and the Purana Qila (Old Fort). Delhi-i Kuhna was intended to serve as a new administrative and cultural center for the empire.
3. Construction of Masjid-i Jami: One of the notable architectural projects undertaken during Sikandar Lodi’s reign was the construction of the Masjid-i Jami in Delhi-i Kuhna. The mosque was built in 1494 AD, serving as a central place of worship for the residents of the new capital.
4. Patronage and Support: As the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, Sikandar Lodi provided the patronage and support necessary for the construction of Masjid-i Jami. He allocated funds and resources for the project and likely appointed skilled architects and craftsmen to oversee its design and construction.
5. Symbol of Authority and Piety: The Masjid-i Jami not only served as a place of worship but also symbolized the authority and piety of Sultan Sikandar Lodi. Its construction reflected his commitment to Islam and his desire to establish a flourishing capital city that would rival the grandeur of earlier Islamic capitals.
6. Architectural Legacy: The Masjid-i Jami stands as a testament to the architectural achievements of the Lodi dynasty and the cultural synthesis that characterized the Delhi Sultanate. Its design and construction reflect the Indo-Islamic architectural style, blending elements of Islamic and Indian architectural traditions.
7. Continued Significance: Today, the Masjid-i Jami remains an important historical and cultural landmark in Delhi-i Kuhna. It continues to serve as a place of worship for the local community and attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its architectural beauty and historical significance.

In summary, the Masjid-i Jami in Delhi-i Kuhna was built during the reign of Sultan Sikandar Lodi as part of his efforts to establish a new capital city for the Delhi Sultanate. Its construction was made possible through the patronage and support of the Sultan, reflecting both his authority and his piety as a Muslim ruler.

Its place in the urban fabric of medieval Delhi.

The Masjid-i Jami holds a significant place in the urban fabric of medieval Delhi, particularly within the context of Delhi-i Kuhna, the city founded by Sultan Sikandar Lodi. Here’s a comprehensive overview:

1. Central Location: The Masjid-i Jami was strategically located at the heart of Delhi-i Kuhna, serving as a focal point for the city’s religious, social, and cultural activities. Its central position made it easily accessible to residents from various parts of the city.
2. Spiritual Center: As a major mosque, the Masjid-i Jami played a vital role as a spiritual center for the inhabitants of Delhi-i Kuhna. It served as a place of worship for the Muslim community, hosting daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers (Jumu’ah), and religious festivals.
3. Community Gathering Place: Beyond its religious functions, the Masjid-i Jami also served as a gathering place for the local community. The spacious courtyard of the mosque provided a venue for social interactions, public meetings, and marketplace activities.
4. Cultural Hub: The mosque’s central location and architectural grandeur made it a symbol of cultural pride and identity for the residents of Delhi-i Kuhna. It served as a venue for cultural events, including poetry recitations, musical performances, and intellectual discussions.
5. Architectural Landmark: The Masjid-i Jami’s imposing architecture and intricate design elements made it a prominent landmark within the city. Its minarets, domes, and ornate decorations were visible from afar, helping to orient residents and visitors within the urban landscape.
6. Commercial Activity: Surrounding the Masjid-i Jami, a bustling marketplace likely developed, taking advantage of the large number of visitors to the mosque. This commercial activity further integrated the mosque into the economic life of Delhi-i Kuhna.
7. Social Cohesion: The presence of the Masjid-i Jami fostered a sense of community and social cohesion among the diverse inhabitants of medieval Delhi. Regardless of social status or background, people from all walks of life converged at the mosque, forging bonds of solidarity and mutual support.
8. Symbol of Power: In addition to its religious and cultural significance, the Masjid-i Jami also served as a symbol of the political power and authority of the ruling elite, particularly Sultan Sikandar Lodi and the Lodi dynasty. Its construction and maintenance underscored the wealth and influence of the ruling class.

Overall, the Masjid-i Jami occupied a central and multifaceted role in the urban fabric of medieval Delhi-i Kuhna. As a spiritual, social, cultural, and architectural landmark, it contributed to the vibrancy and cohesion of the city’s dynamic urban landscape.