Introduction
Baitul Mukarram Mosque is one of the most renowned and oldest mosques in Bangladesh. Located in the capital city of Dhaka, this mosque is the national mosque of the country and has seen numerous historic events take place within its walls. It is a symbol of national pride and is among the most visited places of worship in the country.
Overview of Baitul Mukarram Mosque
Baitul Mukarram Mosque is a six storied building with a capacity of 30,000 worshippers. The mosque is built in a unique architectural style that is a combination of Mughal, Bengali, and modern architectural designs. The main entrance of the mosque is decorated with a huge arch and has a number of domes that add to the beauty of the structure. Inside the mosque, there is a large prayer hall which is adorned with intricate designs and motifs.
History of Baitul Mukarram Mosque
The construction of Baitul Mukarram Mosque began in 1959 and was completed in 1968. The mosque was built by the then president of Pakistan, Ayub Khan, and designed by renowned architect, Yahya Merchant. The mosque was constructed to serve as a national mosque of the newly formed state of Bangladesh.
Since its construction, the mosque has been witness to many important events in the country’s history. These include the funeral prayer of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1975, and the prayer ceremonies of the 21st Amendment to the Constitution of Bangladesh in 2011.
Features of Baitul Mukarram Mosque
The mosque is built on a raised platform and has a large courtyard which can accommodate a large number of worshippers. The prayer hall is decorated with intricate designs and motifs. The mosque also has a number of minarets and two large minarets which are located outside the main building.
The mosque also has a number of smaller halls, a library, a museum, and a conference hall. In addition, the mosque also houses a number of historical artifacts which are preserved in the museum.
Activities at Baitul Mukarram Mosque
The mosque is a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists. Visitors can explore the mosque and its surroundings, as well as take part in various activities such as prayer ceremonies and cultural programs.
The mosque also hosts a number of religious and cultural events throughout the year. These include the Eid-ul-Adha prayer ceremony, the Ramadan Iftar party, and the annual International Islamic Unity Conference.
Conclusion
Baitul Mukarram Mosque is one of the most iconic and important places of worship in Bangladesh. It has been witness to some of the most important events in the country’s history and is a symbol of national pride. The mosque is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the culture and history of Bangladesh.