Indo Islamic Heritage
Vajihi Masjid, located on Basin Bridge Road in Old Washermanpet, Chennai, is one of the key centers of worship for the Dawoodi Bohra community in the city. The mosque serves not only as a space for prayer but also as a community hub where spiritual, educational, and cultural values are upheld. Known for its elegant architecture, distinctive Dawoodi Bohra style, and meticulous maintenance, Vajihi Masjid embodies the harmony of tradition and modernity. It continues to play a vital role in preserving the identity and unity of the Bohra community in Chennai.
Vajihi Masjid, situated in the heart of Old Washermanpet along Basin Bridge Road, is a prominent Dawoodi Bohra mosque in Chennai that beautifully reflects the community’s deep-rooted spiritual and cultural traditions. The Dawoodi Bohras, a subsect within the Ismaili Shia Muslim tradition, are renowned for their devotion, discipline, and distinctive communal identity. Vajihi Masjid stands as a center that embodies these values through its design, rituals, and community services. The mosque’s architecture is both graceful and symbolic, following the Dawoodi Bohra architectural style that emphasizes symmetry, cleanliness, and attention to detail. The façade features elegant arches, white marble detailing, and polished domes that gleam under the Chennai sun. The interiors are equally captivating—adorned with intricate patterns, chandeliers, and soft carpets that create an atmosphere of serenity and reverence. The name “Vajihi” pays tribute to the spiritual lineage of the Bohra community, signifying purity and devotion. Within the mosque, the faithful gather five times a day for prayers, with the Friday congregational prayer (Jumu’ah) drawing large crowds. Sermons and recitations, delivered in both Arabic and Lisan al-Dawat (the community’s traditional language), are a regular part of the mosque’s life. Beyond its religious significance, Vajihi Masjid serves as a stronghold of community organization and welfare. The mosque functions under the guidance of local representatives of the Dawat-e-Hadiyah (the Bohra religious administration) and supports initiatives related to education, healthcare, and charitable outreach. It also hosts religious classes for children and adults, emphasizing Quranic understanding, moral conduct, and community service. During the holy month of Ramadan, the mosque transforms into a vibrant center of devotion and unity. Communal iftars are organized daily, bringing together families from across Chennai’s Bohra neighborhoods. On Eid and Ashara Mubaraka (the annual Bohra commemorative gathering), the mosque is adorned with lights and flowers, creating a scene of profound spiritual celebration. The Bohra community in Chennai is known for its emphasis on cleanliness, orderliness, and civic contribution, values that are visibly embodied in the upkeep of Vajihi Masjid. The surrounding streets are kept tidy, and the mosque compound is meticulously maintained. Visitors often note the sense of discipline and peace that prevails within its walls—a reflection of the Bohra ethos of combining faith with social responsibility. Today, Vajihi Masjid continues to serve as a unifying space where prayer, education, and charity converge. It stands as a testament to the Dawoodi Bohra community’s enduring legacy in Chennai, maintaining its distinct traditions while harmonizing with the diverse spiritual landscape of the city.
Year of Built: 1978
Address: 75, Basin Bridge Rd, Basin Bridge, Kathibada, Old Washermanpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Country: India
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Chennai
Pincode: 600021
Longitude: 80.2775
Latitude: 13.1077