Cheraman Juma Masjid: The Oldest Mosque in India

Oldest mosque in India, Kodungallur town, Kerala, Blend of Kerala and Islamic architecture, Cultural heritage of Islam and India
source: India.com

Cheraman Juma Masjid is a mosque located in Kodungallur town in the Thrissur district of Kerala, India. It is considered to be the first mosque in India and is believed to have been built in 629 AD by Malik Bin Dinar, one of the companions of the Prophet Muhammad.

Here are some key facts about Cheraman Juma Masjid: 

Architecture

The mosque's architecture is a blend of traditional Kerala style and Islamic style. The mosque has a square prayer hall with a flat roof and a wooden ceiling. The mosque's main entrance has a large wooden gate decorated with intricate carvings. 

Significance

Cheraman Juma Masjid is considered to be the first mosque in India and has historical significance. It is believed that the mosque was built after the Chera King, Cheraman Perumal, met Prophet Muhammad and embraced Islam. The mosque is also believed to be the first in the world to have a separate area for women to pray. 

Renovations 

The mosque has undergone several renovations over the centuries, with the most recent renovation taking place in 1974. During the renovation, several ancient artefacts, including old Quran manuscripts, were discovered and preserved. 

Accessibility

Cheraman Juma Masjid is open to visitors of all faiths and is a popular tourist destination. The mosque is easily accessible by road and is located about 30 km from Thrissur and 50 km from Kochi. 

Festivals

The mosque celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Milad-un-Nabi. The mosque's annual festival, known as the Kodungallur Bharani festival, is celebrated during the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February-March) and is a colourful and vibrant event. 

Founder

According to legend, the mosque was built by Malik Bin Dinar, a companion of Prophet Muhammad. However, there is no historical evidence to support this claim. 

Tourist Attraction

Cheraman Juma Masjid is a significant landmark in the history of India and Islam, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and is a symbol of religious harmony and tolerance. In 2015, the mosque underwent a major renovation to restore its original beauty and heritage. The renovation was carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India and the Kerala State Department of Archaeology. 

Location

The mosque is located in Kodungallur town in the Thrissur district of Kerala, which is also known for its historical and cultural significance. The town is home to several other ancient temples, churches, and mosques, making it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims. 

Final Words

It is a historically significant mosque that represents the rich cultural heritage of India and Islam. The mosque's unique architecture, religious tolerance and cultural importance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. 

The mosque's unique architecture, historical significance, and cultural importance make it a popular destination for tourists and visitors of all faiths. And it is believed to have been built in the 7th century AD, making it over 1,400 years old.

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Written By: Syed Abbas

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