Jama Masjid

Situated in Old Delhi, Jama Masjidis the largest Indian mosque constructed by Mughal Emperor, Shahjahanbetween 1644 and 1658 by 5000 artisans. Built in yellow sandstone, the architectural style of bothHindu and Muslim is reflected in this grand structure. It is balanced on 260 pillars that support 15 domes at varying heights. Originally, called Masjid-i-Jahanuma or "Mosque commanding view of the world", this splendid structure portrays uniqueness to religion and Indian history.  This part of Delhi till date displays old-world tradition of Mughal era, making it among major sightseeing places in Delhi. A Delhi travel guide should include Jama Masjid.

Features:

Built in red sandstone, Jama Masjid has three white marbled domes, striped in black.  Every side, 130-feet high slender minarets grace the front view of the edifice. Among three gateways, the eastern was reserved for Emperor Shahjahan during his visit every Friday and on Id.
Near the mosque is a microcosm of quintessential India with narrow streets criss-crossing, leading to one of the famous attractions in Delhi, Meena Bazaar. A sprawling esplanade separates it from the main road.
Architecture:
Ustad Khalil, the great sculptor of the time, planned and designed the Jama Masjid as a replica of Agra’s Moti Masjid. Premises of the south minaret are 1076-sq-ft wide where 25,000 devotees can sit for Namaz (prayer). The structure was placed on high platform to make its magnificent facade visible from adjoining areas.
Religious Centre:
In front of the main Prayer Hall, are high arches, topped with marble domes. The Hall has a niche in a wall sheltering the prayer leader with the courtyard filled with devotees. Worshippers use this hall on most days, but on Fridays and other holy days.
Jama Masjid houses a great treasure, a cupboard containing Hazrat Muhammad's relics. A chapter of Koran is taken from original holy book. Embedded in marble slab, is a hair of Prophet’s beard, his slippers, canopy of his tombstone and footprint of Muhammad.

Chief priest or Imam is direct descendent of the first Imam appointed by Shahjahan. Till now, there is no break in its lineage.