Part of: Delhi Gk set 5

The famous ' Jama-Masjid, of Delhi was built by

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the reign of the Mughal emperors and their architectural contributions.

Correct Answer: C) SHAHJAHAN

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Jama Masjid, also known as the Masjid-i Jahān-Numā (World-reflecting Mosque), is one of the largest mosques in India and is located in the Old Delhi area of Delhi, India. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, who reigned from 1628 to 1658. Shah Jahan is well-known for his architectural contributions, including the Taj Mahal, which he built in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

The construction of the Jama Masjid began in 1650 and was completed in 1656. The mosque was built on a high platform and is made of red sandstone and white marble. It can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at a time. The mosque's architecture is a blend of Islamic and Indian styles, reflecting the Mughal Empire's cultural synthesis.

Shah Jahan's reign was marked by significant architectural projects, and the Jama Masjid is one of the most prominent examples of his patronage of the arts and architecture. The mosque's construction involved the labor of thousands of workers and the use of materials transported from various parts of India. The mosque's location on a high ground provides a panoramic view of the city of Delhi, which was a deliberate design choice to symbolize the power and reach of the Mughal Empire.

Understanding the historical context of the Mughal Empire and the contributions of its emperors is crucial for comprehending the significance of the Jama Masjid. Shah Jahan's reign was a period of great architectural and cultural achievement, and the Jama Masjid stands as a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of Mughal architecture. The mosque continues to be an important religious and cultural landmark in Delhi, attracting both worshippers and tourists.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Humayun, while a significant Mughal emperor, did not build the Jama Masjid. He is known for the Humayun's Tomb, which is a different historical structure in Delhi.
  • Option B: Akbar, another important Mughal emperor, is known for the construction of Fatehpur Sikri and other structures, but not the Jama Masjid. The Jama Masjid was built during a later period in the Mughal dynasty.
  • Option C: Shah Jahan is the correct answer. He was the Mughal emperor who commissioned the construction of the Jama Masjid in Delhi. The mosque was completed in 1656 and is a prime example of Mughal architecture.
  • Option D: Aurangzeb, while a later Mughal emperor, did not build the Jama Masjid. He is known for his military campaigns and religious policies, but not for this particular architectural contribution.

Mnemonic: Jama Masjid, Shah Jahan, J-S

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