Centuries-old nine-dome mosque in dire state

The centuries-old historic nine-dome mosque in Niamatpur upazila of Naogaon district, locally known as Bhanga Masjid, has fallen in dire state in the absence of proper care and renovation.

The two-storey structure was erected on four pillars. It has nine domes, four corner towers, an arch entrance on ground floor and three arches on second floor.

The whole structure is separated in three parts namely-entrance and staircase, open ground and prayer room. Bricks and limestones had been used to build it.

The mosque with its decorative features can grab one's attention at first glance.

According to local sources, it is believed that the mosque was built about 300 to 400 years ago by the then Zamindar in present Dharmapur village of the upazila.

"The mosque including a few of its domes was partially damaged by an earthquake in 1980. Since then it is called the Bhanga Masjid," the sources said.

However, the site is yet to be enlisted by the Department of Archaeology.

Locals said, "Several parts of the mosque had collapsed by natural calamities throughout the centuries. The bricks and plaster in some portions of the building had decayed. The arch entrance had also cracked at a few points."

"Although a team from the Archaeology Department paid a visit to the mosque last year, they did not come back and take any steps for renovation," the locals alleged.

One Hakim Ali, 85, of the village, said, "Before 2020, Eid prayers were offered at the mosque every year. Later, a new mosque was built here and this one was abandoned."

"It was more attractive that time and many people of the adjacent areas used to visit the mosque on regular basis," he added.

Resident of the area Kabul Hossain said, "I used to pray at the mosque with my father and grandfather many years ago. It is heartbreaking that we cannot pray here anymore and the mosque is being decayed days after days."

"We want renovation of the mosque to bring back those memorable days of praying here as soon as possible," he added.

Dr Kazi Mostafizur Rahman, Professor of Islamic History and Culture, Department of Rajshahi University, said, "The Bhanga Masjid was built in early 18th century. It bears the architectural features of the Mughal Empire. The mosque is rare in its type as most of the mosques built in the Mughal period are of three-dome."

He said, "There was an inscription in the middle of the entrance of the mosque. But the plaque was stolen many years back, which could have been helpful to determine the mosque's actual founding year."

"Unfortunately the mosque is now in a sorry state for lack of proper care. Several parts of the mosque including its domes, arches and doors must be renovated. The government should take appropriate measures in this regard and declare the structure as a heritage site," Professor Rahman added.

Niamatpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Maria Joya Perera said, "A letter with attachment of signatures of the villagers was sent to the Archaeology Department a couple of weeks ago for renovation and preservation of the mosque."

"We hope, the authorities concerned will take necessary measures for renovation of the historical site very soon," the sources added.

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