Indo Islamic Heritage
Approach: Approximately 1.5 km east of Hauz Khas metro station on the way to Shaikh Sarai and about 250 meters southwest of Chirag Delhi bus stand. Airport: IGI (Indira Gandhi International Airport) Railway Station: Nizamuddin Railway Station Bus Station: Chirag Delhi Bus Stand
The Kalan Mosque derives its name from the word "Kalan," which means "main," signifying its importance as the principal mosque in the area. This historic mosque continues to serve as a significant place of worship, where regular prayers and important religious ceremonies are conducted. Architecturally, the mosque follows the Lodi style, reflecting the distinctive features of that period. The present structure is a massive three-storeyed building standing on a raised plinth. Its fa?ade features a decorative cusped arch, enhancing the visual appeal of the entrance. Under this arch, an opening designed with a trabeate system is furnished with wooden doors at all three levels. The rooftop of the mosque is flanked by minarets on either side, adding to its grandeur. The prayer chamber consists of three bays, each accessible through an arched opening. Inside, the Qibla wall, which indicates the direction of prayer, is adorned with white marble and lime wash, maintaining a pristine appearance. The pulpit, from where sermons are delivered, is also made of marble. Zafar Hasan, a renowned historian, provides a detailed description of the mosque's dimensions and construction. According to him, the mosque measures approximately 16.25 meters in length and 6.31 meters in width. It is built primarily using rubble masonry and finished with plaster. The central bay of the mosque is covered with a dome, while the side bays feature vaulted roofs, showcasing a blend of structural techniques used during the Lodi period. Regarding the materials used in construction, the original core of the mosque, particularly the plinth and the western Qibla wall, was built using rubble masonry, a common building technique of that time. However, the rest of the structure has been modified or reconstructed using cement and concrete, indicating later renovations. All the doors in the mosque are made of wood and are finished with an oil-based polish, preserving their traditional aesthetic while ensuring durability. Overall, the Kalan Mosque stands as an architectural and historical landmark, reflecting the rich heritage of the Lodi era while continuing to serve its religious purpose in the present day.
Year of Built: 15th - 16th Century
Address: Approx.50 m to the north-west of the tomb of Shaikh Alauddin, Sheikh Sarai, Sawitri Nagar,Phase-1
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: South Delhi
Pincode: 110016
Longitude: 77 13 12
Latitude: 28 32 22