Indo Islamic Heritage
The Nearest Bus Standis the Tenkasi Old Bus Stand, situated at 1 km, the Nearest Railway Station is the Tenkasi Junction (TSI), situated at 2.2 km, and the Nearest Airport is the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), which is situated at 105 km from the mosque.
The Ainthu Varnam Pallivasal (also known as the Five Colour Big Masjid) is a historic and culturally significant mosque situated in Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu. While it is a central landmark for the entire district, it is the primary congregational centre for the Ayyapuram area and the surrounding Melapuliyur neighbourhood. Historical & Religious Significance Unity and Heritage: The name "Ainthu Varnam" translates to "Five Colours" (or Five Communities). Historically, this represents the unification of five distinct clans or guilds within the local Muslim community who joined together to establish this central place of worship, making it a powerful symbol of communal unity. Architectural Style: The mosque is renowned for its grand scale and traditional South Indian Islamic architecture. It features large, colourful minarets and a vast prayer hall that can accommodate thousands of worshippers, particularly during peak times like Friday prayers and major festivals. Establishment: The Ainthu Varnam congregation has been a pillar of the local social fabric for over 150 years. The current large-scale structure was consolidated and significantly upgraded during the late 19th century (circa 1880s). Religious Hub: It serves as a primary gathering point for major Islamic festivals such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Milad-un-Nabi. As the "Big Masjid," it is frequently used for community-wide announcements and religious guidance. Location & Connectivity: The mosque is centrally located, making it accessible to residents of Ayyapuram and the main Tenkasi bazaar area. Scale and Influence: As the "Big Masjid," it is one of the largest congregational spaces in the district, often used for community-wide announcements and religious rulings. Community Spirit: The mosque is known for its inclusive nature, frequently hosting community feasts (Nerchai) and welfare programs that benefit the local population regardless of their specific background. Accessibility: Located near the MDR923 road, it is easily reachable via auto-rickshaws and is within walking distance for those staying in the central Tenkasi bazaar area.
Year of Built: Around the late 19th Century
Address: N E Koikkal Street, Melapuliyur,
Country: India
State: Tamil Nadu
District: Tenkasi
Pincode: 627811
Longitude: 77.31925528207441
Latitude: 8.954936662284057