Historic Masjidkur Mosque faces decay, calls grow for urgent preservation

The nearly 600-year-old historic Masjidkur Mosque, located at Amadi union of Koyra upazila in Khulna, is on the verge of ruin due to a lack of proper conservation, raising alarm among locals and heritage enthusiasts.

The ancient structure, now under the Department of Archaeology, is suffering from severe deterioration. Plaster is peeling off, cracks have appeared on the walls, and intricate designs are gradually fading into oblivion, reports BSS.

Although some minor renovation work was recently carried out to make the mosque usable for prayers, it is widely seen as too little, too late, said the report penned by SM Zahid Hossain.

Situated near the Sundarbans, Masjidkur Mosque stands as a striking example of early Islamic architecture in southern Bengal.

Beyond its religious significance, it remains a living testament to the region's rich history and heritage.

A side view of Masjidkur Mosque. Photo:BSS

Experts believe that with proper maintenance, improved facilities, and effective promotion, the site could well emerge as one of the country's most attractive tourist destinations.

On a recent visit, it was observed that the mosque features nine domes and is constructed with lime-surki and thin square bricks. Built on approximately 45 of land, each side of the structure measures 16.76 metres, while the interior spans 12.19 metres.

Inside, four brick pillars, each embedded with two stone slabs, divide the mosque into nine equal square sections, each topped with a dome.

The qibla-facing wall contains a semicircular mihrab, while the grand entrance, along with its distinctive architectural style, catches the eye.

There is no inscription on any stone pillar within the mosque premises indicating its exact date of construction.

However, due to its architectural resemblance to the Sixty Dome Mosque, historians believe it was built during the time of Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali (RA). At present, the mosque is under the supervision of the Department of Archaeology.

Historical accounts suggest that Sultan Jalaluddin Muhammad Shah ruled Bengal from 1418 AD to 1433 AD. During that period, Khan Jahan Ali (RA) reached as far as Murli in Jessore and divided his entourage into two groups.

The back view of the Masjidkur Mosque estimated to be built in 1445. Photo: Wikipedia 

While he himself moved towards Bagerhat, another group led by his associates Borhan Khan (also known as Bura Khan) and his son Fateh Khan proceeded southwards to the Sundarbans-adjacent Amadi area.

It is believed that they established the Masjidkur Mosque around 1445 AD.

Locals say the village itself derives its name from the mosque. "Our village is known as Masjidkur because of this historic mosque. Though many people may not know the name of our upazila, they recognise the mosque," said Abu Tayeb Sana, a resident of the area.

He added that people from different regions visit the mosque daily, and arrangements for iftar are made during Ramadan, drawing large crowds.

Another side view of the mosque. Photo: Wikipedia 

Regular worshippers Muhammad Mohiuddin, Said Hossain and Harun Molla told BSS that the interior of the mosque remains cool even during extreme heat, making it a unique place of interest for visitors.

Talking to BSS, the khateeb of the mosque, Hafez Maulana Amirul Islam, who has been serving there for nearly two years, stressed the urgent need for proper renovation and preservation.

"Although some repair work was carried out a few months ago, the mosque still remains at risk," he said.

When contacted, Field Officer of the Department of Archaeology, Khulna division, Irene Parveen told the news agency that the allocation for the conservation of historical sites is inadequate.

"We carried out limited renovation this fiscal year to make the mosque usable for prayers. If we receive a larger budget in the next fiscal year, more comprehensive restoration work will be undertaken," she added.