Ornamented with inlaid geometric patterns, colored tiles and calligraphic inscriptions the walls of the Jama Masjid are splendid examples of the opulent Mughal architectural taste. The massive central courtyard at the Jama Masjid in Agra, India has served as a haven for prayer and meditation for the devoted over the centuries.
The floral arabesques in turquoise, brown, red, white and black add to the opulence of this ancient monument.
The tomb of the celebrated Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chisti is located within the Jama Masjid complex located in Agra, India. The artistically carved lattice marble screens are absolutely splendid. It is believed that the original tomb structure was made of red sandstone.
The pillared Dalan and the Chattri on the roof of the Jama Masjid add a special dignity to this sacred monument. The entrance to the Jama Masjid in Agra, India is approached through a massive gate known as the Buland Darwaza though there is another gate known as the Badshahi Darwaza that is equally magnificent.
The Buland Darwaza is one of the highest gateways in the world and stands 40 meters high from the ground level. This massive gateway was constructed by Emperor Akbar to celebrate his victory in the Khandesh military campaign.
As legend goes the emperor Akbar had swept the floor of the main prayer hall quite a few times and had even given the first call for the prayer (azan) he also read the 'khutba' i.e. the Arabic word for the main sermon that is read during Fridays and on special occasions.
The main prayer hall at the Jama Masjid in Agra, India is large enough to accommodate 10,000 men at a time. |