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One of the
most remarkable places to visit in Calcutta is the Nakhoda Masjid.
This mosque had been built in imitation of the mausoleum
of Mughal Emperor Akbar at Secundra by Kuchhi Memon Jamat – a
member of a particular sect of the Muslim community in Calcutta. A second school of
opinion
suggests that Abdur Rahim Osman, a Kachha resident, was the
founder of the mosque.
The foundation stone of this mosque was laid on 11th September,
1926.
The total cost incurred for the construction was Rs. 15 lakhs. About
10,000 men can perform the 'Namaaz' in the stupendous prayer hall
of the mosque. In between is a dome and two minarets which are 151ft. high. There are 25 tiny pillars
beside these which are 100ft. - 117ft. tall. The gateway of this mosque is an ersatz of the Buland
Darwaza at Fatehpur Sikri. For this purpose granite stones were
brought from Tolepur. Inside is a superb exhibition of exquisite
ornamentation and artistic extravaganza. This mosque is decorated
gracefully during the Muslim festivals or 'parabs'. The mosque is governed by a board of
trustees at present.
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