Indo Islamic Heritage
The Zeenath Baksh Juma Masjid, also known as Masjid Zeenath Baksh or Beliye Palli, is a significant historical and religious landmark in Mangalore, Karnataka. Constructed in 644 AD, it is the third oldest mosque in India and the oldest in Karnataka. The mosque is located in the Bunder area of Mangalore and is renowned for its unique Indian architectural style. What makes the mosque particularly notable is its establishment by the descendants of the sahabah (companions) of Prophet Muhammad, which adds to its religious significance for Muslims in the region. Its long history and cultural importance make it a central place of worship and a symbol of the deep-rooted Islamic heritage in Karnataka.
Arab traders have had a long-standing and warm relationship with the local population and rulers of the western coastal belt of India, particularly through trade in the Arabian Sea. This connection dates back to early times when a group of Arab Muslim traders, led by Islamic propagator Hazrath Mohammed Malik Bin Deenar, arrived in Malabar and landed at Kodungallur. The ruler at the time, Raja Cheruman Permal, was so impressed by the piety, honesty, and discipline of Malik Deenar and his companions that he provided them with accommodation, necessary facilities, and a place to trade. The king even granted them land to build mosques, marking the beginning of Islamic presence in the region. Masjid Zeenath Baksh was the second mosque to be built by these traders, following the Cheraman Juma Mosque in Kodungallur. It was inaugurated on a Friday, 22nd of the month of Jumada al-Awwal, Hijra 22 (approximately April 18, 643 AD), with Malik Bin Abdullah appointed as the first Khazi. In the latter part of the 18th century, Tipu Sultan, the Sultan of Mysore, undertook the renovation of the mosque. The renovation not only restored the mosque but also added exquisite wooden carvings, which adorn the pillars and ceilings of the structure. During this time, the mosque was also renamed "Zeenath Baksh Jama Masjid" from its original name, "Malik Dinar Valya Juma-ath Masjid," in honor of Tipu Sultan's daughter. Zeenath Baksh mosque, while being an Islamic place of worship, shares characteristics with regional Hindu temples, such as the presence of a temple tank nearby. Unique to the state of Karnataka, it is the only mosque made entirely of wood. The interior sanctum is particularly remarkable, featuring 16 teak pillars adorned with intricate symbols, bells, and floral patterns, along with life stories of Prophet Muhammad inscribed on the wood. The mosque?s wooden structure, constructed from teak and rosewood, extends to the floor, ceiling, walls, and doors, making it a rare and beautiful architectural gem.
Year of Built: 6th Century
Address: Bunder, Mangaluru, Karnataka
Country: India
State: Karnataka
District: Dakshina Kannada
Pincode: 575001
Longitude: 74.832187
Latitude: 12.864849