Adina Mosque

The Adina Mosque, located at Pandua in Malda of West Bengal, India is a significant historical mosque built in the 14th century during the region of Bengal Sultanate. It is renowned for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, characterized by intricate design and a vast courtyard. The mosque features multiple domes and impressive pillars, showcasing the artistic and architectural ingenuity of that time.
Adina Mosque serves as a major center for Islamic learning and is often associated with the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Kamal. Today, it stands as an important heritage site, reflecting the rich cultural and religious history of the region.

Attraction

Adina Mosque features an impressive Indo-Saracenic architecture style characterized by intricate carvings, multiple domes, and a large entrance.
Its vast courtyard provides a serene place for reelection and gathering, enhancing the mosque’s grandeur.
As one of the largest mosques in Bengal, it reflects the region’s Islamic heritage and history dating to the 14th century.
The mosque is associated with Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Kamal, attracting those interested in spiritual history.
Visitors can admire the detailed stonework that adorns the mosque, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
The site has been a center for Islamic learning and culture, enriching the historical narratives of Bengal.
The controversy about this mosque also works as an attraction for visitors.
These elements make the Adina Mosque not just a place of worship but also a significant cultural landmark.

History

The Adina Mosque, built in the 14th century in Malda, West Bengal, was built by Sikander Shah, son of IIiyas Shah, the founder of the Ilyas Shahi dynasty. Constructed in 1373, it was one of the largest mosques in Bengal, symbolizing the region’s architectural and cultural significance. This mosque was the manifestation of the power and wealth of Sikander Shah. He erected the mosque compared to the Khalifas of Damascus, Baghdad, and Cairo, as he compared himself with the Khalifas of those mentioned kingdoms. He also followed the plan and standardization of those mosques. So, no doubt, Adina Mosque is a masterpiece of the world.

The mosque serves not only as a place of worship but also as a center for learning and Sufi teachings, closely associated with the renowned Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Kamal. Its architecture reflects a blend of Indo-Islamic styles, featuring intricate stone carvings, a large courtyard, and multiple domes.
On the wall of Adina Mosque, some carvings of Hindu deities raise the question, is it a Mosque or temple? This is a controversial topic about this election now.
Over the centuries, the mosque faced periods of neglect and restoration but remains a prominent heritage site. Today, it attracts visitors for its historical importance and architectural beauty, standing as a testament to Bengal’s rich Islamic heritage.

Inside/Outside Views

The exterior features a grand entrance with large arched doorways adorned with intricate stone carvings and motifs typical of Indo-Islamic architecture. The mosque has several dooms which rise majestically above the structure, giving it a distinctive skyline. A spacious courtyard surrounds the mosque, providing ample space for gatherings and reflecting the communal aspect of its use. The exterior is round, with tall pillars and graceful arches, enhancing its grandeur and stability.
The interior features a large prayer hall with a high ceiling supported by intricately carved pillars. The Mihrab, or the prayer niche, is elegantly designed, indicating the directions of Mecca, and showcases beautiful calligraphy and ornamentation. The flooring is typically made of stones, adding to the historical ambiance of the space. Large, arched windows allow natural light to filter in, illuminating the interior and highlighting its artistic features. The interior exudes a peaceful and serene atmosphere, conducting for prayer and reflection.
Overall, the Adina Mosque combines stunning architectural elements with a rich historical context, making it a significant site to explore both inside and outside.

Opening Hours

Monday 11.20 AM – 4.00 PM

Tuesday 9.00 AM – 6.30 PM

Wednesday 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM

Thursday 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM

Friday 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM

Saturday 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM

Sunday 9.00 AM – 6.00 PM

How to Reach

By Air: There are two airports nearest to reach Malda. The 1st one is Bagdogra Airport, which is 224 kilometers and 2nd one is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, which is 316 kilometers away from Malda city.

By Train: The rail connection of The Malda Town Railway Station is very well. Sealdah Railway Station is 328 kilometers, and New Siliguri Railway Junction is 234 kilometers from there.

By Road: Malda Town has excellent road conditions. So it is to access Malda by road.

Tips for Travellers

Put off your footwear before entering inside the mosque.
Wear modest clothes.
It is a religious place so respect the followers believe.
Follow the mosque’s rules.
Carry a water bottle to keep yourself hydrated in a hygienic way.
Don’t forget to click some awesome pictures of the Adina Mosque.
It is an old erection so be careful about your movements there.
Check opening hours before you make a visit.
Leave only footprints behind.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, This place is safe to visit.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the Adina Mosque?

Ans: Photography is allowed, but photography inside the mosque may not be allowed.

Que-03: Is an entry fee needed to visit Adina Mosque?

Ans: No, It is free to visit.

Que-04: What is the main attraction of Adina Mosque?

Ans: Adina Mosque is the largest mosque in West Bengal. This vast mosque is enriched with history, and the intricate carvings on its walls and pillars attract visitors to it.