Adina Masjid: A Monument of Bengal's Glorious Past
Adina Masjid: A Monument of
Bengal's Glorious Past
Safiul Islam
Independent Researcher
M.A, B.Ed.
Aliah University, Kolkata
Abstract:
Adina Masjid, located in Pandua, Malda in
the Indian State of West Bengal, is a symbolic artefact of Bengal's ironic
history. Built during the reign of Sultan Sikandar Shah in the 14th century,
this mosque is not only a religious structure, but also an edifice reflecting
the architectural, cultural, and political narratives of the Bengal Sultanate
period. This research paper explores Adina Masjid’s historical significance as
an architectural marvel and the sociopolitical context of its erection. It offers insights into why it remains a significant monument of Bengal's
glorious past.
Keywords: Adina
Masjid, Ilyas Shahi Dynasty, Bengal Sultanate, Mosque, Pandua.
Introduction:
Adina Masjid, built by Sultan Sikandar Shah
in 1373–75 AD, stands as a testament to the strength of the Sultanate and the
flourishing Indo-Islamic culture (Eaton, 1993). During the reign of
Sikandar Shah of the Ilyas Shahi dynasty, the construction of Adina Masjid was
not only an architectural endeavour but also a grand statement of power and
cultural identity. (Asher, 1984) envisioned the mosque to mirror the
magnificence of Sasanian and Umayyad structures, embodying both the
architectural finesse and religious fervour of the era. Adina Masjid, conceived
on a monumental scale, echoes ostentations of power and piety, serving as a
beacon of Islamic artistry and Bengal's rich heritage. The Adina Masjid
attracts scholars as well as historians because of its grandeur and historical
importance. The mosque was built in 1374-75 CE by Sultan Sikandar Shah and was
designed as a structure that would surpass its contemporaries in terms of scale
and beauty.
Architectural Grandeur:
The large dimensions of the mosque, which
covers 472 m x 237 m, make it one of the largest mosques in the subcontinent
and show the ingenuity of its builders. Adina Masjid is a mammoth multi-domed
structure adorned with an impressive array of stone and terracotta
ornamentation that showcases a fusion of indigenous Bengali and Islamic
architecture (Koch, 1991). The masjid’s central nave, higher than its
flanking aisles, accommodates a large congregational hall topped by a massive
dome—a feature not common in other mosques of the region at that time.
Art and Aesthetics:
Adina Masjid boasts a number of stunning
artistic elements, the intricate stonework adorning the door arches, and the
mihrab stand out as a particularly impressive feature. The craftsmen at the
time displayed remarkable skill in their creations, weaving together a tapestry
of motifs that blended Islamic artistry with local craftsmanship (Mitra,
2002). The delicate floral patterns, graceful Arabic carvings, and
mesmerizing geometric designs adorning the arches captivate the eyes and speak
volumes about the artistic sophistication of the era.
However, the mihrab, with its exquisitely
detailed craftsmanship, is certainly an example of a combination of artistic
excellence and cultural synthesis during Bengal's Sultanate period. As the
focal point of the mosque, the mihrab not only indicates the direction of the
Qibla but also serves as a canvas for intricate ornamentation. Every curve,
every line, is meticulously carved, reflecting the dedication of the artisans
and the reverence with which they approach their work. Here, in the mihrab, the
spiritual and the aesthetic merge, creating a space of profound beauty and
cultural significance within Adina Masjid.
Symbolism and Significance:
Adina Masjid was not only a mere place of
worship, but also a powerful symbol of Islamic ascendancy in Bengal,
representing the Sultan's aspirations to strengthen his authority and inscribe
the legacy of his dynasty on the landscape of the region. The monumental scale
and architectural splendour of the mosque was a deliberate assertion of power,
intended to impress the subjects of the ruling Sultanate and mark Bengal's
integration into the broader Islamic world (Sarkar, 1975).
Adina Masjid has excelled in its role as a
religious edifice to become a focal point for intellectual and cultural
exchange. Within the hallowed halls, scholars congregated to discuss, exchange
ideas, and advance learning in various fields. This vibrant intellectual
atmosphere not only enriched the scholarly pursuits of the era but also
facilitated the synthesis of Bengali and Islamic cultural traditions, giving
rise to a distinct Bengali-Islamic identity (Sarkar, 1975). Therefore,
Adina Masjid served not only as a physical manifestation of Islamic hegemony
but also as a catalyst for cultural integration and forging a unique
sociocultural identity in Bengal history.
Preservation and Contemporary Relevance:
For centuries, Adina Masjid has endured the
ravages of time, experiencing the degradation caused by natural elements and
periods of neglect. As a result of the passage of time, together with
environmental factors, the preservation of this historical monument has faced
significant challenges. However, concerted efforts by the Archaeological Survey
of India (ASI) to preserve and restore Adina Masjid have played a
crucial role in ensuring its survival as a tangible link to Bengal's rich
heritage (ASI Reports, 1965). Through meticulous restoration efforts,
ASI not only helped to stop the decay of the mosque but also rejuvenated its
architectural splendour, allowing it to stand as a resilient testament to
Bengal's cultural legacy.
Today, Adina Masjid is not only a relic of
the past but also a living testimony to the region's cosmopolitan heritage. The
mosque welcomes historians, archaeologists, and visitors from all over the
world and continues to serve as a beacon of cultural significance and
historical intrigue. Its holy halls echo the whispers of centuries past,
inviting contemplation and contemplation from both locals and tourists. Adina
Masjid has a special place in the hearts of the inhabitants of the surrounding
region, serving as a tangible reminder of their shared history and cultural
identity. As visitors traverse the ancient corridors and look at the ornate
architecture, they are transported back in time, connected with the storied
past of Bengal and its glorious heritage of cultural diversity and
cosmopolitanism.
Conclusion:
Adina Masjid is a remarkable testament to
the grandeur of Bengal's past in its rich architecture and storied history.
This monumental structure, created by a combination of monumental ambition and
intricate artistry, epitomizes the cultural and historical richness of the
Bengal Sultanate period. Its towering minarets and intricately carved facades
are evidence of the long-lasting legacy of Indo-Islamic architecture, which
serves as a lasting symbol of Bengal's cosmopolitan heritage. As visitors pass
through the sacred precincts and marvel at their architectural masterpieces,
they are transported back in time, immersed in the grandeur and splendour of
the past era. The significance of Adina Masjid extends beyond its physical
presence; it serves as a bridge between the present and the past, connecting
history, culture, and tradition. The echoes of the centuries-old past resonate
within the stones and spaces, carrying the stories of rulers, scholars, and
craftsmen who shaped the destiny of Bengal.
Adina Masjid is still an irreplaceable
treasure, a repository of Bengal's historical and cultural heritage. It reminds
us of the region's rich traditions, reflects its enduring spirit, and is a
source of inspiration for future generations. As we gaze upon its majestic
silhouette against the backdrop of the Bengal sky, let us not only admire its
beauty but also honour the legacy it represents a legacy of resilience,
diversity, and cultural synthesis that continues to define the essence of
Bengal.
References:
1. Asher, C. B. (1984). "The New
Cambridge History of India, I: Architecture of Mughal India."
Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
3. Eaton, R. M. (1993). "The Rise
of Islam and the Bengal Frontier, 1204-1760." Berkeley: University of
California Press.
4. Koch, E. (1991). "Mughal
Architecture." Munich: Prestel.
5. Mitra, D. (2002). "Brick Temples
of Bengal: From the Archives of David McCutchion." Princeton:
Princeton University Press.
6. Sarkar, H. (1975). "Monuments of
India." Calcutta: Portfolio Publishers.
7. Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
Reports. (1965). "Conservation efforts on Adina Masjid."
(Copyright Declaration: This Research
paper, titled "Adina Masjid: A Monument of Bengal's Glorious Past,"
including all its contents, abstract, and any accompanying materials, is the
intellectual property of Safiul Islam. All rights pertaining to the
reproduction, distribution, adaptation, and dissemination of this paper are
reserved by the author.
Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or
distribution of this research paper or its contents will be considered a
violation of copyright law and may result in legal action.)
This paper is also available on Academia.com link https://www.academia.edu/115361512/Adina_Masjid_A_Monument_of_Bengals_Glorious_Past
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