Fatehpuri Masjid, one of Delhi’s oldest and most revered mosques, was constructed in 1650 by Fatehpuri Begum, a wife of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who also commissioned the Taj Mahal. Named after its founder, Fatehpuri Masjid stands at the western end of the bustling Chandni Chowk, opposite the monumental Red Fort and facing Jama Masjid across the old city. This masjid showcases the intricate Mughal architectural style, specifically with its red sandstone structure, onion-shaped domes, and beautifully arched gateways.

Architectural Features: Fatehpuri Masjid’s architecture is modest yet impressive, embodying the classic simplicity of Mughal aesthetics. The mosque features a central courtyard surrounded by arched galleries, with three large domes topping the main prayer hall. The walls are adorned with calligraphic inscriptions, and the traditional mihrab (prayer niche) inside the hall is decorated with minimalistic yet elegant carvings. Unlike the Jama Masjid, Fatehpuri Masjid has a single prayer hall, but its architecture allows ample natural light and ventilation, making it a peaceful and inviting space for worship.

Historical Significance: Fatehpuri Masjid has stood as a silent witness to Delhi’s transformations, from the grandeur of the Mughal era to British colonial rule and post-independence India. After the First War of Indian Independence in 1857, British forces seized the mosque, converting it into a military base and storehouse as part of a larger effort to suppress the city’s Muslim community. Subsequently, the British auctioned it to Rai Lala Chunnamal, a prominent local businessman and one of the few wealthy individuals allowed to remain in the Chandni Chowk area after the uprising.

In 1877, in recognition of its religious significance and as a goodwill gesture to the Muslim community, the British returned the masjid to its original purpose through negotiations funded by the Nawab of Rampur, a well-known patron of art, culture, and religious institutions.

Cultural and Religious Role: Over the centuries, Fatehpuri Masjid has served as an essential spiritual and educational center for the Muslim community in Delhi. The masjid houses a madrasa (Islamic school), which has historically attracted students from all over the region. In addition to regular prayers, the masjid is a gathering point for Friday congregational prayers, Eid celebrations, and other significant religious events. The mosque’s tranquil courtyard provides a place for reflection amidst the surrounding hustle and bustle of Chandni Chowk’s market streets, drawing not only worshippers but also travelers, photographers, and history enthusiasts.

Present-Day Fatehpuri Masjid: Today, Fatehpuri Masjid remains a well-preserved monument, revered both as a functioning mosque and a historic site. The masjid is managed by the local community, with ongoing efforts to maintain its architectural integrity and spiritual atmosphere. During Ramzan, the masjid comes alive with devotees who gather for iftar and tarawih prayers, creating an atmosphere that resonates with Delhi’s rich Islamic traditions.

Visitors to Fatehpuri Masjid often enjoy its proximity to the cultural heart of Old Delhi. Surrounded by traditional markets, iconic eateries, and centuries-old shops, the masjid is integral to the living heritage of the area. Fatehpuri Masjid stands as both a piece of Mughal history and a testament to the resilience and continuity of Delhi’s Islamic culture, drawing visitors who seek a glimpse into the city’s layered past and its enduring cultural diversity.