Ponnani is a coastal town, along the banks of Bharathapuzha. It is part of the district that is known to be the cleanest district in the state. There is a lush green vegetation in the region and the climate is tropical and humid. It is greatly affected by the South West Monsoons. The fresh air of the region attracts a lot of tourists.
Pilgrim
Juma Masjid, Ponnani
About Juma Masjid, Ponnani
The mosque is located in the Ponnani municipality of Malappuram district. Ponnani has a strong Islamic influence and hence it is known as the ‘Mecca of the Kerala Muslims’. The mosque was built in the beginning of the 16th century by a Hindu under the leadership of the then spiritual leader of the Muslims, whose name was Zainuddin Makhdum.
An important feature of Ponnani Juma Masjid is the lamp which is nearly 500 years old. The mosque at Ponnani was once an important centre for Islamic philosophy and doctrine. Students from all over the world came here to acquire knowledge. It is believed that they sat under the very oil lamp, and it is still burning to the date.
The architecture of the mosque is simple, and is characteristic of the traditional architecture of the temples. It is constructed mainly of wood. There is a sword in the temple which is believed to be more than 200 years old and Arabic writings are found near the entrance.
History or Myth
There is an interesting history behind the construction of the mosque. The structure of the mosque is that of the traditional Hindu temples in Kerala, despite being built in the 16th century, when Islamic style has already begun influencing the architecture of the mosques. The reason behind this is that the mosque was constructed by a Hindu artisan, who embraced the Islamic religion after being impressed by its simplicity and ideologies.
Tips or precaution
- Best time to visit the mosque is during March or April during the major festival, nercha.
Nearest Places
How to reach
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BY AIR
Malik Juma Masjid, Ponnani is only 55 Kilometres away from the Kozhikode International airport. -
BY TRAIN
You can reach by train from any part of India. There are several railway station close to Ponnani. They are Tirur Railway Station, Kuttipuram Railway Station and Guruvayoor Railway Station. -
BY ROAD
Bus service is available from all the places in Kerala and luxury buses are available from most of the South Indian cities. It is well connected with other cities in the country through the major national highway NH-66.
Highlights or specialities
- The burning lamp.
- Mausoleums of the founders of the mosque.
- Historical significance