Moti Masjid, Bhopal – The Most Gorgeous Shrine
Moti Masjid, Bhopal is one of the most beautiful shrines in India, located at the heart of the Bhopal city. One of the most popular tourist destinations of Bhopal, Moti Masjid is also known as the Pearl Mosque. The unique construction was built to signify the glorious history of the Begums (queens) of Bhopal during that era.Moti Masjid – A Quick Glance
Famous for: Religious significance, Experience seekers, Peaceful ambience
Timing: 6:00am – 7:00pm
Visit duration: 1 hour
Built in: 1860
Built by: Sikander Begum
Address: Imami Gate Road, Peer Gate, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Entry fee: Free
Moti Masjid – An Overview
Bhopal is rightly called the city of mosques, thanks to the number of ancient mosques and monuments that make it full of spiritual vibes. Among those mosques is Bhopal Moti Masjid as a popular spot, exceptionally noted for its architectural beauty and historical significance.Moti Masjid in Bhopal was built in 1860 by Sikander Begum as a historical depiction of her rule in Bhopal. The mosque is relatively smaller in size as compared to the majority of mosques in the city. The overall construction and design of Moti Masjid resembles closely to the much more famous Jama Masjid located in Delhi.
The Bhopal Moti Masjid looks mesmerizing as an aristocratic structure made in white which looks outstanding spread over an open land and beneath the bright blue sky. The main complex is all about six arcades placed over a yard along with designing marvels and the most evident sanctum spread at the exterior. There are three huge arches made of white marble adorning the sanctum and bringing on a striking contrast with the red sandstone towers.
There are seven compartments constructed within the premise that are separated into walkways and waterfronts. The entire complex is believed to be motivated from the outline structure and concept of St. Basil’s Cathedral located in Moscow.
Architecture of Moti Masjid, Bhopal
The Moti Masjid holds immense importance as a popular spot to visit in Bhopal. Located at the heart of the city, the mosque showcases the rich history of the royal women in India during the 19th century.Look wise, the architecture and design share a close resemblance to Delhi’s Jama Masjid. However, the size is way smaller than the latter. Featured with white marble façade, the Masjid has two small cupolas on the top to add to the signature style of the architectural charm. There are two towers in bright red colour placed on both sides of the main structure which contrast the white marble of the main monument. These two towers are made of red bricks and they mark the entrance of the mosque premise which extends over an area which is all about milk white marble that shines and glitters like pearl. Hence, the name – Moti Masjid where moti means pearl.
History of Moti Masjid
The history of Moti Masjid dates back to the year 1860 when the daughter of Qudisiya Begum, Sikander Begum broke the stereotype and offered a glimpse of liberation, courage and progressiveness, and constructed the mosque under her administration. It was probably inherited from her mother Qudisiya Begum, who inherited the position of royalty once her husband and the Badshah (king) passed away.During the era, when women lived under veils, Sikander Begum created history by building bridges, roads, and quite a number of elegant and prominent constructions among which Moti Masjid is worth mentionable.
The spectacular Moti Masjid speaks for the unconventional trend that began with Sikander Begum’s era and progressive attempt breaking the typical mindset of people back then and setting a new trend among the women in the country.
The Moti Masjid, Bhopal still stands tall as a striking example of women empowerment and at the same time represents the rich heritage and cultural history of the Begums.
Visiting the Moti Masjid
Bhopal is easily accessible by daily flights and trains connected with different cities of the country. Places like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Gwalior and Indore are few of the major cities that are most conveniently connected with Bhopal.Daily buses and other public transports are also available to take tourists to the city of mosques. You can reach Moti Masjid from the airport, railway station and bus stations by any transport, public as well as private.
It is the easy accessibility of the Moti Masjid from different locations and by different modes of transport that instantly makes it a tourist’s favourite.
Nearest airport from Moti Masjid: Raja Bhoj Airport, Bhopal
Distance: 12km (7.5mi)
Nearest railway station from Moti Masjid: Bhopal Junction
Distance: 3.7km (2.3mi)
Etiquette to Learn before Visiting Moti Masjid
Before visiting Moti Masjid, Bhopal (or any mosque, for that matter), do remember that mosques are considered extremely sacred by the Muslims who are committed to keep them clean and be respectful towards the rituals followed inside and around.Here are few of the tips to keep in your mind while you visit Moti Masjid:
a. Your footwear must be removed outside the mosque at the allotted space as a sign of respect. Additionally, the hat and the sunglass must also be taken off before entering Moti Masjid.
b. You must enter by putting your right foot first. Also, you will leave the mosque by putting your left foot first. This is one of the major signs to keep in mind as specific mosque etiquette.
c. Avoid making loud noises, giggles, or chats once you are inside the Moti Masjid. You need to switch off your mobile phones, and not to eat or drink anything inside the masjid.
d. You must take care not to point your feet in the direction of the Qibla (Mecca), as that is the direction that Muslims face towards while offering prayers.
e. Don’t forget to dress modestly; you are supposed to cover yourself as much possible, including the head.
f. You shouldn’t enter the Moti Masjid when the prayers are in process. Wait for it to get over and then enter the premise.
g. Photography is allowed inside the Moti Masjid, however certainly not during the prayer times or during the ablutions before the prayers.
Moti Masjid, Bhopal is a beautiful place to visit – both for the religious ones as well as for the experience seekers. The ones looking for some precious time with nature can also make Moti Masjid a must visit destination.