Khirki Masjid, Delhi

Located in the settlement of Jahanpanah in Malviya Nagar, Khirki Masjid is one such ancient mosque that is known for its unique architecture and historical significance. With more than 85 domes in its vicinity, the Khirki Masjid is said to be one of the finest Muslim heritage sites in Delhi that was constructed by Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah, the vizier of the Feroz Shah Tuglaq (1351 to 1388) of the Tughlaq Dynasty. The unique name of this beautiful mosque goes after its perforated windows that add a magnificent charm on the upper floors.

The term ‘Khirki’ is an Urdu term that refers to ‘window’, and therefore, it is also known as the ‘The Fort of Windows’. However, these windows serve as the source of ventilation and lightning in the courtyards. Built-in the area of 87 sq mt, this mosque in Delhi is laid on an elevated platform, 3 meters in height, with an arched opening. Unlike the other mosques, the Khirki Masjid is a quadrangular-shaped mosque which is subdivided into two parts with each of the part having its courtyard. Throughout the year, the masjid receives a lot of visitors from far and wide making it one of the prominent travel places in Delhi.

Architecture

The construction of Khirki Masjid is quadrangular in shape that boasts a unique fusion of both Islamic and traditional Hindu architectural design. It is perched on a high elevated platform with 3 m of height. In total, there are four courtyards; each enclosed by arcades with square structural columns and around 60 pilasters.

These open courtyards serve as the source of ventilation and light to the fort. Whereas, the roof is divided into 25 square, each of equal size, with 9 domes in each square. The architecture of the Khirki Mosque also includes 12 flat roofs which cover the roof of the fort. Moreover, there four corners in the fort that are embellished with three projecting gateways.

The first one is located in the middle of the corners. Whereas, the southern gate boasts a unique construction of both arch and trabeated with a rectilinear frame. However, the main gate has a protruding mihrab. Apart from this, on the second floor, there are arch windows with projecting tracery, called Khirkis.