Historic Mughal-era masjid in Ganderbal to undergo restoration after decades of neglect

The Jammu and Kashmir government has sanctioned a Rs 5 crore project for the restoration of a Mughal-era masjid in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, following years of neglect of a monument that should long have been under proper custodial care.

The project aims to preserve the 17th-century architectural heritage and boost local tourism.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, during his visit to Ganderbal on Monday, laid the foundation stone for the restoration, conservation and development of the historic Masjid Hamam and allied works at Malshahi Masjid, Malshahi Bagh, at an estimated cost of Rs 5.01 crore.

The project, undertaken by the Archives, Archaeological and Museums department, aims to preserve the monument’s architectural and cultural legacy while promoting heritage tourism, officials said.

This Mughal-era monument of historical importance, which ideally should have been looked after by the Archaeological Department, the Waqf Board or the administration, had been left in a shambles for decades.

Built in the 17th century by Dara Shikoh in memory of his spiritual master and saint Mullah Shah Badakhshi, the Malshahi Bagh Masjid was once a symbol of devotion and Mughal elegance.

Constructed with rocks, clay and limestone, it features a unique architectural style with arched terraces and a multi-storied hammam. The place served as a site for prayers and gatherings during the Mughal era, and locals confirm it was used for Islamic activities, including congregational prayers throughout that period.

Over the years, harsh winters, moisture seepage and a chronic lack of upkeep have taken a severe toll on the structure. The once-solid walls are now deeply cracked, wooden beams have decayed, and portions of the roof have caved in. The structural damage includes the collapse of walls and the roof, while most of the inscriptions and artworks painted on the walls have been erased entirely.

The monument stands amid several hundred kanals of orchard land owned by the Waqf Board, which is also the custodian of the monument, though neither the Board nor any other authority gave the site the attention it warranted.

Locals have expressed happiness over the sanctioning of the restoration project and described it as a long-overdue response to persistent community demands. They said that if preserved and maintained properly, the place has every potential to become a significant attraction for tourists and visitors.

One resident told this correspondent that after years of representations to the administration, the government’s decision to sanction Rs 5 crore for restoration was a welcome step. “We are hopeful that it will ensure the preservation of this heritage and will make it a place of attraction for visitors,” he said.

Another local, Manzoor Ahmad, said the site has clear potential as a heritage tourism destination. “The surroundings are beautiful and the mosque itself is a masterpiece. Once restored, it can attract tourists, both domestic and foreign, who are interested in history, culture and architecture,” he said.

Others in the area also welcomed the sanction of funds and approval of renovation. “This was a long-pending demand of the area. We are thankful that the government has taken note of the issue. The renovation funds approved will help in preventing further damage,” said another resident.