The Mosque of Hillal khan, Dholka

Author: Author
Article Date: 13.12.2012

mosques in Gujarat, built around the middle of the fifteenth century, shows no marked change or progress. But still there are two noteworthy structures in Sarkhej located near Ahmedabad.

The tomb of saint Makhdum Sheikh Ahmad Khattu (1336-1445) is an open pillared mosque presenting a splendid example of mosque architecture.

Built over a plinth area of  3170 sq m, Sarkhej  mosque has large, spectacular courtyard measuring 399.48 sq m including sanctuary. There are about 120 pillars in the sanctuary under a flatroof topped with five large and forty smaller domes. The mosque has no arch screen and minars.

Jami masjid of Champaner (1485 A.D.) is one of the finest mosques in Gujarat located in historic town that is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The mosque was built during the reign of King Begda who relocated his capital to Champaner. This small mosque displays one of the most unified form where all the elements of a mosque come together in perfect proportions and harmony.

The structure constitutes a sanctuary and a courtyard surrounded by eleven large domes. The tall minarets of this mosque rise from each side of the central bay. In the northwest corner of the mosque is an area enclosed by perforated stone screens and provided with a separate mihrab area for the women devotees.
 
It was during the reign of Mohammad Begada (1458-1511) when Gujarat architecture reach its zenith.The mosque of Muhafiz  Khan (1492) is a small gem of architecture. Sidi sayyid's mosque is the last great mosque in Ahamedabad. Constructed between 1572- 1573 the prayer hall of the mosque has a façade of five well proportioned arches with a deep cornice above supported on brackets.