description Khirki Mosque Overview
The Khirki Mosque is a 14th-century mosque located in the Khirki neighborhood of South Delhi, India. It was built during the Tughlaq period by Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah, a prominent noble of the era. The mosque is architecturally unusual for its largely roofed design, in which the roof is pierced by four open internal courtyards that provide light and ventilation. This layout makes it one of the few enclosed-courtyard mosques in Indo-Islamic architecture.
help Khirki Mosque FAQ
Where is the Khirki Mosque located?
The Khirki Mosque is located in the southern part of Delhi, India, specifically in a neighborhood called Khirki Village. The area has since been absorbed into the bustling urban sprawl of the capital city.
What makes the architectural layout of Khirki Mosque so unusual?
Unlike traditional open-air mosques, Khirki Mosque is a unique roofed structure that is built like a fortress, complete with bastions. Its roof is punctuated by four massive, open internal courtyards that provide light and air to the covered prayer areas.
Who commissioned the construction of the Khirki Mosque?
The mosque was built in the 14th century by Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah, who served as the prime minister during the Tughlaq dynasty. He was a prolific builder responsible for several unique mosques around Delhi during the reign of Sultan Firuz Shah Tughlaq.
Why is it called Khirki Mosque?
The name 'Khirki' translates to 'window' in Hindi and Urdu, referring to the massive latticed windows that pierce the thick stone walls of the structure. These windows were ingeniously designed to allow light and ventilation while keeping the interior cool and shaded from the harsh Indian sun.
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