Ahmed Shah mosque to get Rs22 lakh facelift

The creaking walls and weather-beaten domes of the city's Ahmad Shah mosque are set to receive a new lease of life, courtesy the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Popularly known as Juni Juma Masjid, the heritage mosque will undergo restoration and beautification by the deft hands of ASI which also protects the monument.

Built in the name of city's founder King Ahmad Shah in 1414, the monument was perhaps a private chapel for the royal family. Today, portions of this historic structure are in shambles. “An entire wall on the western side (of the monument) is missing. Turrets at the top of the existing walls also need to be replaced,” said AM Agharia, senior conservator with ASI.

Restoration of the mosque has begun, informed Agharia. “First phase involves new flooring and erection of a new wall in place of the one destroyed,” he added.

ASI has approved a budget of Rs22 lakh for the entire process and Rs5 lakh from this will be spent till December 2011 under revised conservation programme. The entire project is expected to be over by end of next year, said Agharia.

The expansive structure is spread over 700 sq mt roofed by two rows of 10 large domes and several smaller ones in between. Eight perforated windows and 152 pillars add to the grandeur of the mosque. Four arched doors and 25 intricately wrought pillars welcome you to relive the past.

After completion of this project, ASI will take up restoration of Paldi mosque and Qutb-e-Alam tomb in Vatva.