Badshahi Mosque: Lahore, Pakistan - Mughal Masjid & Visit Info

The Badshahi Mosque, a historic landmark of Lahore, Pakistan is one of the monuments that were a show of magnificence of the Mughal era. This grandiose masjid is the masterpiece of the Mughal architecture, constructed at the time of the reign of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, and is visited by people all over the world to appreciate its magnificence. 

History of Badshahi Mosque

The Badshahi Mosque has a rich history that goes hand in hand with the reign of the Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb, otherwise known as Alamgir. The vision of Aurangzeb was to design a masjid which could compete with Jama Masjid in Delhi and thus the architectural excellence of Mughals was cemented further.  

The governor of Lahore, Khan Bahadur Kokaltash, supervised the construction of the mosque thus making sure that the mosque was constructed to the best of the Mughal design and craftsmanship that cemented its position in history.

Architecture of Badshahi Mosque 

Badshahi Mosque is a great masterpiece in terms of architecture, as it is a fine mixture of the Mughal style, which is characterized by a wide use of red sandstone and white marble.  

The largest characteristics of the mosque are its domes and high minarets that are visible in the skyline of Lahore. Decoration all over the building demonstrates detailed marble inlay and massive relief-work, illustrating the outstanding craftsmanship of the Mughal carvers. 

Location and Significance

The Badshahi Mosque in the city of Lahore, Pakistan is situated next to the Lahore Fort and it has a great historical and cultural value. The fact that it is near to the Lahore Fort shows that there was a strong correlation between the religious and political authority of the Mughal period.  

The mosque was a central place of worship, and this is underscored by the fact that the huge courtyard of the mosque could hold thousands of worshippers. Once Ranjit Singh conquered Lahore, the mosque was used as a military training center, but it was rather returned to its previous role of a mosque. 

History of the Badshahi Mosque 

History of Badshahi Mosque

The Badshahi Mosque history or Badshahi Masjid has got a very strong connection with the Mughal epoch, that is, it dates back to the era of the reign of Aurangzeb. Being the Mughal Emperor, the mosque was commissioned by Aurangzeb in 1671 in Lahore Pakistan and finished in 1673. The building of the mosque was not a light task, as it engaged the best of artisans and used the best quality materials to make it magnificent. 

Architecture of Badshahi Mosque

The Badshahi Mosque architecture is a beautiful example of the Mughal architecture including large size, complex adornment, and use of red sandstone and white marble. The massive building has huge domes and high minarets which catches the attention of the skyline of Lahore.

The expansive courtyard of the mosque has the capacity to take in a huge number of worshippers. The mosque was constructed with much detail wherein the marble inlay and bold relief works were used. 

Beauty of Badshahi Mosque at Night

The Badshahi Mosque is especially beautiful during the night when the whole building is lit and it highlights the architectural features of the building and gives an atmosphere of magic.  

The luminous effect of the lights is reflected in the white marble and brings the focus to the elaborated marble inlay and pronounced relief work. The minarets are erected high against the night sky and the dome is bright, making one admirable sight. 

Visiting the Badshahi Mosque Lahore

The visit to Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Pakistan, is a journey that can bring a person close to the history and culture. Being one of the largest mosques in the world, the Badshahi Mosque offers a great opportunity to learn more about the Mughal architecture and magnificence of the Mughal empire, as well as admire it by all the participants of the different faiths. The Badshahi Masjid is complemented by other historical places such as the Lahore Fort and Hazuri Bagh which help in enhancing the beauty of the place. 

Exploring Lahore's Cultural Heritage 

Best Time to Visit Badshahi Mosque

The Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, Pakistan is best seen in the cool months, between October and March. This time of the year is better as the weather is not hot and the visitors can enjoy the vast courtyard and marvel at Mughal architecture without suffering due to extreme temperature. Better lighting comes in the early morning or the late afternoon, and boosts the appeal of the red sandstone and white marble. 

Badshahi Mosque in Islamic Heritage

Badshahi practice Islamic heritage not only in Lahore but also in the world. The masjid is one of the largest mosques in the world and was built by the Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb as a symbol of the fascination by the Mughals to build a space where worshippers get a feeling of awe and reverence. The minarets and marble domes act as a reminder of the historical and cultural background of the Islamic religion. 

Badshahi Mosque Courtyard View

The Badshahi Mosque courtyard is a breathtaking view with a panoramic view of the architectural prowess during the Mughal era. The huge spacious courtyard, which has the capacity to house thousands of worshippers, offers an unbroken sight of the high towering minarets and marble domes of the mosque. This contrast of the sky with the red sandstone and white marble is especially remarkable in the time of sunrise and sunset. 

Conclusion

FAQS

Q1: Who built Badshahi Mosque and why?

It was built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb to display Mughal power, Islamic devotion, and architectural grandeur.

Q2: Who is the owner of Badshahi Masjid?

It has no individual owner; it is public religious property built for the Muslim community.

Q3: Whose grave is in Badshahi Mosque?

No graves exist inside the mosque; however, Allama Iqbal’s grave is located nearby outside the main complex.

Q4: Which mosque is located in Lahore Fort?

The Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) is the one located inside Lahore Fort.

Q5: Why was Badshahi Mosque built?