Just a few minutes away from the Ajmer Dargah, lies a marvellous structure that dates back to the 1199 AD. It is popularly known as Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra which means ‘two and a half-day shed’. It was built by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first Sultan of Delhi, on the orders of Mohammad Ghori. The name of the structure is derived from the fact that it was built within a time span of two and a half days. Some other records say, a fair takes place in the mosque for two and a half days and hence the name. Sultan Iltutmish revamped the structure later, in 1213 AD.
What’s In It?
Though dilapidated, the mosque still stands as one of the masterpieces among the Indo-Islamic architecture. The most eye-catching attraction of the building is the 60-feet high arch. The front facade of the building has a magnificent screen, that was built during the rule of Iltutmish. One needs to take steep steps to reach atop the dome. From the top, all seven lofty arches of the mosque are visible together. The arcs have several stone-carved Quranic inscriptions, much similar to the Qutub Mosque of Delhi. The interior of the assembly hall consists of beautifully decorated pillars with some designs similar to the ancient Hindu and Jain structures. In fact, as per historic records, parts of Adhai Din Ka Jhonpra were built from the ruins of Hindu and Jain temples.
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What’s More?
The mosque is popular among the locals, however, it is less explored by the tourists who visit Ajmer. It is currently maintained by The Archaeological Survey of India. The old charm of the place makes it a perfect haven for shutterbugs and all those who have got a strong love for things of the bygone era. The hilly stretch in the backdrop of the mosque adds to the beauty of the overall structure.
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So, the next time you are planning a trip to Rajasthan, don’t forget to pay a short visit to this rare architecture in Ajmer to satiate the history buff in you.