In a significant development, the foundation stone for the forthcoming Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah in Ayodhya is set to be laid by the distinguished Imam-e-Haram, the leader of prayers at Mecca’s holy mosque. Positioned 25 kilometers from Ayodhya in Dhannipur, this mosque, allocated land by the Uttar Pradesh government in compliance with the Supreme Court’s Ayodhya dispute verdict, is poised to become the largest in India and will feature the world’s largest Quran.
Haji Arafat Shaikh, a prominent BJP leader from Mumbai, assumes the role of Chairman of the Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah’s Development Committee. Shaikh revealed ambitious plans for the mosque, including housing a Quran of monumental proportions, measuring an impressive 21 feet in height and 36 feet in width. Overseeing the entire project is the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation, established in July 2020 to manage the construction of the Ayodhya mosque and associated amenities.
Shaikh further detailed the expansive vision for the mosque complex, envisioning not only a place of worship but a holistic center with facilities such as a cancer hospital, schools, colleges, a museum, library, and a vegetarian kitchen offering complimentary meals. Symbolism abounds in the mosque’s design, featuring five minarets representing the fundamental pillars of Islam—kalima, namaz, roza, Haj, and zakat.
The assertion that the mosque’s aesthetic allure will surpass that of the iconic Taj Mahal adds an additional layer of significance. Shaikh anticipates a breathtaking spectacle during the evening, with fountains coming to life in harmony with the call for evening prayers. He envisions the mosque as a universal symbol of peace and harmony, drawing visitors from all walks of life.
As the Ayodhya mosque project progresses, it not only marks a momentous religious undertaking but also a comprehensive endeavor encompassing education, healthcare, and cultural enrichment—a testament to the inclusive vision shaping this historic monument.
