One of the largest mosques in Chennai, named for the thousand oil lamps that once illuminated its grand prayer hall.
Did you know?
The Thousand Lights Mosque gets its name from the tradition of lighting a thousand oil lamps during special occasions, illuminating its massive prayer hall.
History
Built in the early 1800s by Nawab Umdat-ul-Umra, the Thousand Lights Mosque is one of Chennai's most prominent Islamic landmarks. The mosque takes its name from the estimated one thousand oil lamps that were required to illuminate its vast prayer hall before the advent of electricity. The area around it, also called Thousand Lights, derives its name from the mosque.
Architecture
The mosque features a large domed prayer hall that can accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers. The architecture blends Mughal and South Indian styles, with ornate minarets and a spacious courtyard. The interior is decorated with calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran.
Visiting Information
Located on Anna Salai (Mount Road) near the Thousand Lights junction, the mosque is accessible by metro (Thousand Lights station) and bus. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome outside of prayer times. Modest dress is required.
Festivals
Eid al-Fitr
Varies (end of Ramadan)The celebration marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan is the mosque's grandest occasion. Thousands gather for the early-morning Eid namaz (prayer), followed by embraces and greetings. The surrounding streets come alive with iftar feasts, sweet shops, and a festive atmosphere.
Eid al-Adha (Bakrid)
VariesThe Festival of Sacrifice is observed with special prayers, sermons on the spirit of sacrifice, and the distribution of meat to the poor. The mosque organises community feasts open to all.
Milad-un-Nabi
Varies (Rabi ul-Awwal)The birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad is commemorated with special prayers, recitation of the Quran, and discourses on the Prophet's life and teachings. The mosque is decorated with lights and green banners.
Ramadan
Varies (9th month of Islamic calendar)The holy month of fasting transforms the mosque and its surroundings. Iftar meals are served daily at sunset to hundreds of fasting devotees. Taraweeh prayers (special night prayers) are conducted after Isha, with the entire Quran recited over the course of the month.
Events & Activities
Quranic Recitation Programmes
SpiritualRegular Quran study circles and recitation programmes conducted by the mosque's imams, open to community members of all ages seeking to deepen their understanding of the scripture.
Location
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