Wallajah Mosque - Chennai

Wallajah Mosque, often referred to as the Big Mosque, graces the Triplicane (Tiruvallikkeni) locality of Chennai. With its rich history, it stands as one of the city's oldest and most renowned mosques.

Situated along Triplicane High Road, this majestic mosque was erected in 1794 CE in loving memory of Muhammad Ali Khan Wallajah, the Nawab of Arcot. Notably, the mosque's construction is a marvel, crafted entirely from granite without the use of iron or wood. Its design boasts two minarets that pay homage to Mughal architectural style. The mosque complex encompasses a spacious prayer hall, a meticulously maintained tank, and an expansive courtyard, which is nearly as vast as the mosque itself.

The grand entrance steps leading to the mosque span an area nearly equivalent to the mosque's size. Within this complex lies the Durgah of Hazrat Malikum Ulma Bahrul Uloom, a venerated Muslim saint and scholar who lived approximately three centuries ago. Alongside his tomb, you'll find the final resting places of Wallajah's family members. Notably, the revered politician Mohammad Ismail, affectionately known as Quaid-e-Millat, also finds his eternal repose here.

On the right side of the open courtyard stands an elegant white building, impossible to overlook. This structure served as the Consulate of the Ottoman Empire during the 19th century CE.

Embark on a journey to this historical marvel, where the echoes of centuries past resonate through the grandeur of Wallajah Mosque.

Happy travelling.