Nayabad Masjid — Attraction in Rangpur Division

Nayabad Mosque' is situated on the bank of the Dhepa river in village Nayabad in Ramchandrapur Union under Kaharol Thana of Dinajpur district, about 20 km to the north-west of the district town. The mosque, built on about 1.15 bighas of land, has been renovated by the Department of Archaeology, Bangladesh. A madrasa has recently been built in front of the mosque.

An inscription on the central doorway records the date of its construction as 2 Jyaistha, 1200 BS (1793 AD) in the reign of Emperor SHAH ALAM II. According to local traditions, the mosque was built by Muslim architectural workers who had come to this place from the west to build Kantanagar Temple sometime in mid-18th century. They had settled in Nayabad, a village near the temple, and had built the mosque for their own use.



Nayabad Mosque, Dinajpur

It is an oblong three-domed mosque with octagonal towers at the four corners and measures 12.45m' 5.5m externally. The walls are 1.10m thick. Of the three arched entrances the central one is bigger than the flanking ones. These are equal in height and width. The central arch is 1.95m high and 1.15m wide. There is an arched window each on the south and north sides. Multi-cusped arches have been used in the doorways and windows. There are three mihrabs inside in the western wall in line with the three entrances. The central mihrab (2,30m high and 1.08m wide) is bigger than the flanking ones which are of equal size. Three hemispherical domes cover the mosque, of which the central one is bigger than the side ones. Pendentives have been used in their phase of transition. The parapet and cornice are straight.

Of the four corner towers in the four outer corners of the mosque two (northeastern and northwestern) still possess the cupolas on their top. The top of the other two is now bare. The corner towers are plastered and gradually tapering; each had a lantern-like chhatri on the top crowned with a cupola. Four bands at regular intervals decorate the surface of each tower.

The terracotta plaques used in the decoration of the mosque have become loose and most of them have been damaged. At present there are about 104 terracotta plaques (rectangular in shape, 0.40m' 0.30m) used in the surface decoration of the mosque walls. Though damaged some of them show floral and creeper motifs. It is noteworthy that one contains a depiction of a pair of peacocks. [Sania...

If you visit the UNESCO heritage site Kanta Ji Temple in Dinajpur, you may want to visit Nayabad Mosque. The mosque is not well known to outsiders. The locals know about it. If you ask they will show you.

It is a max ten min ride by car or by autorickshaw. From the main road you go through a link road past villages.

Locals claim this Mosque is as old as Kanta Ji Mandir. Legend has it, it was built my Muslim architects and masons who were involved in the building of Kanta Ji Mandir. This second hypothesis is acceptable.

The Mosque is small. Looks like it was built for 25-30 to pray at the same time. The mosque is built with terracotta bricks. However the bricks are not as old as Kanta Ji from the looks. Thus one could hypothesize this mosque is a few decades younger than Kanta Ji.

The inside of the mosque gives out architecture from the 1800s more than the 1700s. The wall of the mihrab side is highly covered with green algae. The mihrab room has one small door to enter and two windows, north and south facing.

The maidan of the mosque was probably made later. Cement floor. Can accommodate may be 100 people for praying.

The mosque ground has a small garden in front. The garden is well maintained. It also has a small office for the people who take care of the mosque.

At the entrance wall on the left, there is a box for donation. The Imam will nevertheless remind you to give a donation according to your ability and wish.

Nayabad Mosque is peaceful and tranquil. It is worth a visit. Even to see that people from different faiths contributed to the building of an iconic terracotta temple in Bangladesh and both the Bengals.

Asrar...

My recent trip to Dinajpur took me to the remarkable Noyabad Mosque, a site brimming with archaeological significance and captivating history. The moment I stepped onto the grounds, I felt transported to a different era. The mosque's architecture, though weathered by time, spoke volumes about its rich past.

A local resident graciously shared the mosque's fascinating story, adding depth to my experience. I learned about its origins, the influences that shaped its design, and the pivotal role it played in the region's history. The narrative was so compelling that it brought the very stones of the mosque to life. I was particularly struck by the stories how the makers come from Iran, and the king then build a mosque for them and gave land to stay. From then till date those people are staying there.

The Noyabad Mosque isn't just a historical monument; it's a testament to the cultural heritage of Dinajpur. The serene atmosphere invites contemplation, while the architectural details offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship of a bygone era. It's a place where history whispers from every corner, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to the Noyabad Mosque. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone seeking a unique travel experience, this site will not disappoint. Gather your friends and family and embark on a journey through time at the Noyabad Mosque in Dinajpur. You'll be captivated by its beauty and intrigued by its story. It's a destination that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for our...