Indo Islamic Heritage

Sarangpur Masjid

Sarangpur ki Masjid or Queen's mosque, also known as the Malik Sarang mosque or Rani Mosque was built c.1530 by Malik Quivam ul Mulk, the governor of Ahmadabad .

The Sarangpur Mosque in Ahmedabad, India, is an important historical structure that dates back to the early 16th century, likely built by Malik Kiwam al-Din Sarang, a military official under Sultan Mahmud Bayqara of Gujarat and his successor, Sultan Muzaffar II. Malik Sarang is believed to have died around 1530 CE, which suggests the mosque was completed before his passing. Located just west of the Sarangpur Gate at the eastern edge of the old walled city of Ahmedabad, the mosque is also known locally as Rani Masjid or the Queen's Mosque. The mosque is a rectangular structure with five large gateways that open to the east. Of these, the central gateway is the most prominent, surpassing the four flanking gateways in size. It features a large pointed archway with two thick minarets flanking it, although only the bases of these minarets remain today. These minaret bases are composed of engaged octagonal pillars, intricately decorated with carved ornaments arranged in successive horizontal registers. The upper portions of the minarets above the roofline have been removed, leaving only these ornamental bases. Inside, the mosque features a large pillared prayer hall. The hall is aligned with the five entryways, with five large domes supported by eight pillars arranged in a line along the axis of the hall, parallel to the qibla wall. These domes cover octagonal bays that are separated from one another by aisles running along the sides, front, and back walls of the mosque. Smaller domes cover sections of these aisles, contributing to the overall architectural elegance and design. Opposite the mosque entrance to the east, there is a freestanding tomb, which adds to the architectural ensemble of the site. The tomb is a square, pillared hall, with twelve inner pillars arranged in a square formation supporting a dome that rises higher than the rest of the structure. The dome is surrounded by a second-story gallery, which allows natural light to filter into the building, enhancing the atmosphere of serenity and reverence. This tomb is an integral part of the complex, symbolizing the historical significance of the area and its association with the local military and religious figures of the time. In terms of dimensions, the mosque spans an impressive 147 feet by 36.5 feet in its interior area, making it a notable example of early 16th-century mosque architecture in Gujarat. It also goes by other names such as Malik Sarang Masjid and is recognized for its cultural and architectural importance in the region. The mosque is a testament to the grandeur of its time, reflecting the artistic and architectural accomplishments of the era in which it was constructed.

Year of Built: 15th Century

Address: Old City, Khadia, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Country: India

State: Gujarat

District: Ahmedabad

Pincode: 380001

Longitude: 72.5936

Latitude: 23.0207