Khirki Masjid, Delhi

About Khirki Masjid

Khirki Masjid is a historic mosque located in the Khirki village area of South Delhi, India. It is known for its unique architectural style and intricate lattice work. The mosque was built during the medieval period by Khan-i-Jahan Junan Shah and is an important heritage site in Delhi. It is a rectangular structure with four turrets at the corners and a prominent central dome. The mosque is built of rubble masonry and has architectural elements that show a mixture of Islamic and indigenous Indian influences.

Architecture of Khirki Masjid

The Khirki Masjid is built on a raised platform with an area of 936 square feet. There are four open courtyards surrounded by arches made of 180 square structural pillars and 60 pillars, which run in the north-south direction and are divided into corridors. The terrace is divided into 25 squares of equal size. Each square has 9 smaller domes (81 domes in total) and 12 flat roofs to cover the roof. The Khirki Masjid is a forerunner of Mughal architecture (1526–1857), highly metaphorical of architectural beauty. In which the architecture of the Lodhi period (1451–1526) – the last dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate – marks a transition.

Interesting facts about Khirki Masjid

• The Khirki Mosque is open to visitors, and people interested in history and architecture often come to the mosque to appreciate its unique design and learn about its historical context.
• During the visit, it is advised to wear modest clothing out of respect for the religious and cultural significance of the site.
• What makes the Khirki Mosque particularly distinctive are its perforated stone screens, also known as jaalis, that adorn the windows and walls of the mosque.
• These latticed screens create intricate patterns of light and shadow, which enhance the architectural beauty of the mosque.
• The mosque has a central courtyard surrounded by arched passages. These passages have distinctive jaalis that are the hallmark of the mosque's architecture.
• The Khirki Mosque also has an underground water tank, which was probably used for ablution before prayer.

How to reach Khirki Masjid