Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra Mosque in Ajmer is one of the oldest and most remarkable mosques in India, known for its exceptional blend of Hindu, Jain, and Islamic architectural styles. This historic monument is a stunning example of the early Indo-Islamic architecture, reflecting the cultural and religious fusion that defines much of India's history.
A Rich History of Transformation
The history of Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra is as fascinating as its architecture. Some sources suggest that the building was originally a Jain temple dedicated to the celebration of Panch Kalyanak, built by Seth Viramdev Kala in the 6th century. Other historical inscriptions indicate it was a Sanskrit college during the Chauhan dynasty. However, when Muhammad Ghori and his general, Qutb-ud-din-Aibak, captured Ajmer, they transformed the structure into a mosque. A distinctive seven-arched wall was added to the façade, and the new structure was decorated with Islamic calligraphy.
The building was designed by the architect Abu Bakr of Herat, with Afghan managers overseeing construction. Interestingly, Hindu masons and laborers played a significant role in creating the ornate details that retain traditional Indian architectural features. Later, during the Sultanate period, Iltutmish, a successor of Delhi’s sultans, further enriched the mosque by adding a prominent seven-arched screen.
Architecture: A Masterpiece of Cultural Fusion
Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra's architecture is a testament to the blending of different cultural influences. The mosque's layout is square-shaped, covering an area of 1,036 feet, and it is surrounded by 344 pillars arranged symmetrically across the courtyard. These pillars, which are finely carved, are a fusion of Hindu and Jain temple architecture, yet they support the Islamic design elements of the mosque.
The southern entrance of the mosque is marked by a magnificent seven-arch screen made of yellow limestone. The central arch rises to about 60 feet, surrounded by six smaller arches. The arches are not only structural but also allow daylight to fill the complex, a feature inspired by Arab mosques. The walls are adorned with intricate Arabic calligraphy, including Kufic and Tugra inscriptions, and verses from the Quran. These features reflect the influence of Islamic architecture from regions like Ghazni, Turkistan, and Persia.
Inside, the mosque measures 200 feet by 175 feet, with a large central hall supported by arcade pillars. These pillars are intricately carved, showcasing the craftsmanship of Indian masons, while the wide bases narrow as they rise, a distinctive feature of Indian temple architecture. The mosque itself is located in the western part of the complex, surrounded by 124 pillars and crowned with ten domes. The sacred space, which includes the mihrab—a niche in the wall facing Mecca—is elegantly carved from white marble.
A Testament to Artistic Excellence
The Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra Mosque is a unique symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. The combination of red sandstone architecture, the meticulous craftsmanship of Indian masons, Jain sculptures, Islamic Arabic designs, and Indian latticework creates a unique blend that stands out among India’s historical monuments. It is no surprise that this mosque has been managed by the Archaeological Survey of India since India’s independence, preserving its significance for generations to come.
Today, the mosque remains a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who are captivated by its historical significance and architectural beauty.
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