07th March 2018
I was wandering in the streets of Chiniot, capturing old buildings with my camera. I must say, I found the local people of Chiniot very friendly and soft-spoken. I was in Sheikhan wali Gali a family invited me to come inside to visit and photograph their home. It was a pre-partition building which has an amazing wooden false ceiling, arches, wooden windows, and ventilators.
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| Located in Building 02 |
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| Located in Building 02 |
07th March 2018
Nestled amidst the enchanting landscape of Chiniot Hill, lies the charming neighborhood of Mohalla Rajan Wala. This neighborhood is home to the illustrious Jamia Masjid Mukhtar Hussain, an ancient mosque that stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. The mosque itself is a visual feast, boasting a magnificent fusion of Islamic art and traditional Chiniot influences.
Upon approaching the mosque, one's eyes are immediately drawn to the intricate floral motifs that adorn its exterior, adding an element of grace and beauty to the architectural marvel. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a sight that captivates the soul—an exquisite blend of Islamic artistry and the distinct Chiniot aesthetic.
The mosque features a striking single-centered dome, elegantly raised on squinches that provide structural support. These squinches are skillfully crafted, forming parallel arch frames that contribute to the mosque's architectural integrity. Such craftsmanship is a testament to the expertise and craftsmanship of the artisans of Chiniot.
However, it is the internal surface of the mosque that truly takes one's breath away. The interior walls are adorned with mesmerizing frescoes, meticulously designed and meticulously executed. The frescoes depict a rich tapestry of Islamic motifs, intricately interwoven with Chiniot's traditional artistic elements. Each brushstroke tells a story, breathing life into the sacred space and adding a sense of serenity to the ambiance.
The fresco work within the mosque not only showcases the artistic prowess of the craftsmen but also reflects the devotion and reverence of the community that built and nurtured this place of worship. It is a testament to their commitment to creating a spiritual sanctuary that is not only architecturally splendid but also spiritually uplifting.
The Jamia Masjid Mukhtar Hussain serves as a cultural treasure, preserving the unique architectural heritage of Chiniot and providing a spiritual haven for worshippers and visitors alike. It stands as a living testament to the harmonious blending of Islamic artistic traditions and Chiniot's distinct artistic legacy.
As one explores the mosque, it becomes evident that every corner, every detail has been carefully crafted to create an atmosphere of tranquility and devotion. The interplay of light and color, the intricacy of the designs, and the sheer grandeur of the mosque's interior transport visitors to a realm of timeless beauty and spiritual contemplation.
Jamia Masjid Mukhtar Hussain is not merely a place of worship; it is a living testament to the artistic heritage and spiritual devotion of the people of Chiniot. It stands as a reminder of the rich cultural tapestry woven by generations past, and it continues to inspire and awe those who have the privilege to witness its magnificence.
06th March 2018
The magnificent Shahi Masjid in Chiniot stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of Wazir Saad Ullah Khan during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan. This mosque's design is said to bear a striking resemblance to the Jamia Masjid in Delhi, while its arches share a strong resemblance to those found in the Red Fort. It is noteworthy that both the Jamia Masjid and the Red Fort were not only constructed during Shah Jahan's reign but were also supervised by the esteemed Wazir himself.
Saad Ullah Khan, born into poverty in the village of Pataraki near Chiniot, resided near Lahore's Wazir Khan Masjid before eventually shifting to Delhi. This proximity may explain the similarities in the frescoes and side structures between the Wazir Khan Mosque and the Shahi Masjid. Following his appointment as Wazir by Shah Jahan, owing to his intellect and knowledge, Khan undertook the construction of a mosque in Chiniot, recognizing its strategic significance at the time.
The construction of the mosque spanned nine years, from 1646 to 1655 AD, thanks to Wazir Saad Ullah Khan's remarkable ability to accomplish the task without excessive expenditure. The mosque was erected on a single podium, elevated approximately 15 feet above the ground, and connected to the bazaar through two adjoining lanes. A central ablution pool graced the courtyard, while four minarets adorned the corners of the structure. Legend has it that these minarets were originally built with a unique stone known as Sang-e-Larzaan, earning their moniker as the "trembling stone," as they would sway slightly in the face of strong winds. The main prayer hall, crowned with three domes, featured four rows of majestic pillars adorned with intricate floral patterns and exquisite designs.
Throughout the Mughal era, the mosque stood in all its
glory. However, when Punjab fell under Sikh rule, the armies of Ranjit Singh
converted the mosque into a stable in 1816, marking a stark transformation of
its purpose.
