Bagha Mosque, a historical and architectural gem, is situated 40 kilometers southeast of Rajshahi in Bangladesh. This mosque carries with it a rich history and boasts impressive architectural features that have stood the test of time.
History
Constructed in 1523-1524 (930 AH) by Sultan Nusrat Shah, the son of Alauddin Shah and founder of the Husain Shahi dynasty, the mosque has undergone various renovations throughout its existence. Notably, in 1897, the mosque had to be rebuilt after the collapse of its domes.
Architectural Features
The Bagha Mosque occupies an expansive 256 bighas of land, featuring a courtyard elevated 8-10 feet above the ground. The north side gate’s pillars and carvings bear the marks of time. Inside, six robust pillars support the structure, while four artfully inlaid arches adorn the mosque. The mosque’s walls are 6 feet wide, and its dome stands at 42 feet in diameter and 12 feet in height.
This architectural masterpiece spans 22.92 meters in length, 12.18 meters in width, and reaches a height of 24 feet 6 inches. Its walls are an impressive 2.22 meters thick. The mosque proudly displays ten domes, with four minarets that sport dome-shaped tops. Five entrances grant access to the mosque, while a surrounding wall adds to its grandeur. Inside and outside the mosque, intricate terracotta designs, including depictions of mangoes, lily flowers, herbs, and more, captivate visitors. Adjacent to the mosque, a vast lake provides another point of interest, and a Mazar Sharif lies nearby.
Description
Bagha Mosque’s construction utilizes lime and surki (powdered brick), creating a visually striking interior and exterior with numerous arches and pillars. Terracotta handicrafts, depicting a variety of motifs, adorn the mosque, showcasing Persian carving influences. Additionally, on the north side of the mosque premises, you’ll find a shrine dedicated to Shahdaula and his five companions.
The adjacent lake, constructed by Nasiruddin Nasrat Shah, serves as a public utility, covering 52 bighas of land. Rows of coconut trees surround this picturesque waterbody, attracting countless guest birds during the winter months.
Close to the Shahi Mosque, you’ll discover the tomb of Jahar Khaki Pir, situated on the north side of the main shrine. Beneath the ground near the mosque, excavations in 1997 revealed the Mahal pond, measuring 30 feet by 20 feet. This pond, connected to the inner palace via a tunnel, is accessible via stairs on three sides.
Terracotta plaques adorn both the interior and exterior of the mosque, adding to its visual allure. Inside the mosque, a special prayer room can be found in the northwest corner. Adjacent to the mosque, the annual ‘Baghar Mela’ has been celebrated for 500 years, commencing from the day of Eid-ul-Fitr and lasting for three days.
Bagha Mosque stands as a testament to Bangladesh’s rich history and architectural heritage. Its intricate designs, historical significance, and the surrounding natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.