Why should you visit the Mecca Masjid?
- The Mecca Masjid is an architectural marvel and non-Muslims are welcome too.
- The entrance to the courtyard is one of the Mecca Masjid’s most striking features. The central hall of the mosque is 75 feet high and measures about 40,000 sq ft which can accommodate up to 10,000 people, making it one of the largest mosques in India.
- The prayer hall is supported by 15 exquisitely designed arches, and the facade of the hall has 5 open arches with 2 minarets, which in turn have a dome on top. The 5 open arches have been carved out of single granite stone.
- You can see verses from the Quran carved on the arches and the doors of the mosque. Exquisite Belgian crystal chandeliers grace the mosque ceilings, enhancing the beauty of the stunning architecture.
- You will find the tombs of the rulers and family members of the Asaf Jahi dynasty at the southern end of the mosque in a rectangular, arched, and canopied building.
- There is a pond within the complex with seating arrangements at the edges and a room in the courtyard that stores holy relics, among which the most important is the hair of the Prophet Mohammed.
- Mecca Masjid is a must-visit for anyone interested in Muslim culture and history.
History of Mecca Masjid:
The construction of this mosque was started in the year 1617 by Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah, the sixth Qutb Shahi king.
It is said that Mecca Masjid was started to ward off a curse on the Sultan’s son.
Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah was married to Hayat Bakshi, and they had a son after 7 years of marriage. The son was named Abdullah. The Royal Astrologers said that the child was born under an inauspicious star and said that the Sultan and the Prince cannot see each other’s faces for a period of 12 years.
It was then suggested that the Sultan construct a mosque to lift Abdullah’s curse.
The king immediately ordered a mosque to be built to the northwest of Charminar.
When the ceremony was being held to lay the foundation stone, a proclamation was made that the foundation stone would be laid by someone who had never missed the 5 daily prayers prescribed in Islam.
When nobody got up, the ruler, Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah, himself, got up and said that he had not missed a single daily prayer of his faith since the age of 12 and laid the foundation stone himself.
It is said that the soil from the holy land of Mecca was used to construct the bricks used in the central arch of the mosque, and that’s why this mosque is called the “Mecca Masjid.”
The progress on this ambitious project was so slow that the Sultan couldn’t complete this mosque in his lifetime. Neither could his successor, nor the successor after that. The construction of this mosque was completed by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb when he entered Hyderabad as a conqueror 75 years later.
It is said that over 8000 masons were involved in the construction of this mosque around the clock.
A visit to the Mecca Masjid would be a memorable experience that you will cherish. The awe-inspiring architecture, the tranquil atmosphere, and the sense of history that the mosque exudes are simply unparalleled. It is truly a marvel of Islamic art and culture that everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime.
If you ever find yourself in Hyderabad, make sure to include Mecca Masjid in your itinerary. It is not just a mosque, but also a symbol of the city’s rich heritage and culture. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a serene place to pray, Mecca Masjid is a must-visit destination.
The mosque’s grandeur and majesty will leave you in awe and have a mesmerizing effect. I urge you to pack your bags, embark on a journey to Hyderabad, and witness the magnificence of Mecca Masjid for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!
Tip:
1. Men need to wear trousers. Shorts are not allowed in the mosque.
2. Women need to cover their heads with scarves and dress modestly.
3. A lot of people will approach you claiming to be local guides. Don’t bother talking to them.
4. Visit the Charminar, a monument just next door, synonymous with Hyderabad, and the Laad Bazaar – the bangles market.
Entry Fees:
Entry to this mosque is free
Timings:
4.30 am to 9.30 pm
Open on all days
FAQs
Q. Is there a dress code to enter Mecca Masjid?
A. Visitors are required to dress modestly and cover their heads while entering the mosque. It is advisable to carry a scarf or shawl if you plan to visit the mosque.
Q. Can non-Muslims visit Mecca Masjid?
A. Yes, Mecca Masjid is open to people of all faiths. However, visitors are expected to respect the religious sentiments of the place and maintain decorum.
Q. What is the best time to visit thisplace?
A. The best time to visit Mecca Masjid is during early morning or late afternoon, as the weather is relatively pleasant and the mosque is less crowded.
Q. Is there an entry fee to visit Mecca Masjid?
A. No, there is no entry fee to visit Mecca Masjid. However, visitors are required to follow certain dress codes and maintain decorum inside the mosque premises.
What to do next?
Check out my article on 41 amazing places to visit in Hyderabad
