![]() |
The Shahpur Mosqu,Ahmedabad,GJ upload.wikimedia.org From British library |
Above image: The Shahpur Mosque, also known as the Shahpur Paththarwali Masjid or Kazi Mohammed Chishti's Mosque, is a 16th-century Indo-Islamic style mosque located near the Shahpur Gate in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Construction began in 1565 by Shaikh Husain Muhammad Chishti, but was not completed. It is noted for Indo-Islamic design style........
The Shahpur Mosque, also known as Shahpur Paththarwali Masjid or Kazi Mohammed Chishti's Mosque, is a notable 16th-century Sufi mosque located near Shahpur Gate in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Built in 1565 CE by Shaikh Husain Muhammad Chishti, a revered figure of the Shahpur Qazi religious order, the mosque is an outstanding example of late Sultanate-era architecture in Gujarat. Despite its grandeur, the structure was never completed, leaving a distinctive unfinished charm that adds to its historical intrigue.
![]() |
Fine carvings Shahpur Mosque,Ahmedabad,GJ en.wikipedia.org |
![]() |
Shahpur Mosque Niches from the base of S.Minaret en.wikipedia.org |
The mosque is modest in dimensions—measuring approximately 18 metres in length and 12 metres in width—but stands out for its unique architectural features. It represents a fusion of the pillared Hindu temple style and the arched Islamic style, a hallmark of Indo-Islamic architecture. The lower level is characterized by arched openings, while the upper level remains largely flat, except for the central arched window. The central dome, resting on the second floor, is supported by twelve intricately carved pillars, with an additional forty-four pillars supporting the main prayer hall.
Shahpur Mosque Yappe.in |
The mosque's most striking features are its minarets. Rising on either side of the main façade, they are richly ornamented with fine carvings and tracery, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Their intricate design, though in stark contrast to the relatively plain structure of the prayer hall, ranks among the finest in Ahmedabad. The detailing includes floral motifs, geometric patterns, and lattice work that reflect the high aesthetic and spiritual aspirations of its patrons.
Though not in active religious use today, the Shahpur Mosque has been recognized as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. It continues to be a subject of interest for historians, conservationists, and architecture enthusiasts. Restoration and preservation efforts have helped maintain its structural integrity, allowing it to stand as a reminder of Ahmedabad’s rich architectural and Sufi heritage.
https://www.welcometoahmedabad.com/124/islamic-architecture.html