The Siddi Bashir Mosque, also known as the Shaking Minarets, is a historical mosque located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. This unique mosque is famous for its two minarets that are connected by a series of intricately carved stone balconies. When one minaret is shaken, the other minaret vibrates as well, hence the name "Shaking Minarets". The reason behind this architectural marvel is still a mystery to engineers and historians.
The Siddi Bashir Mosque showcases stunning Indo-Islamic architecture with intricate carvings, delicate designs, and traditional Islamic arches. The main highlight of the mosque is the two minarets that are 21.34 meters tall and are connected by a balcony. The balconies are supported by delicately carved stone brackets without any support from the main building. The minarets are made of sandstone and have beautiful geometric patterns carved into them.
The Siddi Bashir Mosque was built in the early 15th century by Siddi Bashir, a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah. The mosque was constructed during the reign of the Gujarat Sultanate. The minarets were designed in a way that if one minaret is shaken, the other minaret vibrates as well. The reason behind this unique architecture is still a mystery that baffles engineers and historians.
The best time to visit the Siddi Bashir Mosque is during the winter months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and conducive to exploring the outdoors. Avoid visiting during the scorching summer months as temperatures can soar above 40 degrees Celsius.
The Siddi Bashir Mosque is located in the heart of Ahmedabad, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The closest railway station is Ahmedabad Junction, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Local buses and taxis are also available for reaching the mosque from different parts of the city.
1. Make sure to visit the mosque early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds and the heat.
2. Respect the religious sentiments of the locals and adhere to the dress code when visiting the mosque.
3. Do not shake the minarets yourself as it can damage the delicate structure and is not allowed by the authorities.
4. Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and architectural details of the mosque, as each corner holds a piece of history.
5. Carry water and wear comfortable shoes as you may need to climb stairs to reach the balconies of the minarets.
In conclusion, the Siddi Bashir Mosque (Shaking Minarets) is a fascinating architectural marvel that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its unique design, intricate carvings, and mysterious shaking minarets, this historical mosque is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture.