Kolkata's famous Tipu Sultan Mosque, opened its doors to women by hosting an iftar for them under a shamiana in the premises.
The Tipu Sultan Mosque, situated in Esplanade, Kolkata, is one of the most legendary structures in the city. The mosque was built by Prince Ghulam Mohammed, the youngest son of Tipu Sultan, in 1832.
A relic of the architectural and rich cultural heritage, the structure, with its tall minarets piercing the sky, is an integral part of Kolkata’s historical fabric, and one of the most recognisable heritage structures in the City of Joy.
Check out these stunning pictures of the mosque, which has withstood the test of time, and attracted devotees from far and wide.
Well, for the first time in its 184-year-old history, the mosque arranged an iftar and evening prayers on its premises. Nothing unusual about that, you say?
Well, this one was attended by women, reports the Times of India. A temporary shamiana inside the mosque’s premises, with lights, fans and drinking water was set up for the event.
The women chose from delectable iftari, like fruits, chhole, sweets and sherbet. The mosque’s mutwali (caretaker), and the great-grandson of Prince Ghulam Mohammed told the publication that the mosque had arranged the iftar.
All the women had to do, was reach the premises at the prescribed time, and take their seats. Explaining the rationale behind the initiative, he said that many women came to the bustling Esplanade area, from far-flung places, for shopping during Ramzan. Devoid of any proper place to go when the hour for iftar comes, they are forced to break their fast on the road, sans their evening prayers
The initiative to open the mosque for women devotees went down well with the women themselves. Asma Momin, a resident of Park Circus who was purchasing essentials in Esplanade, lauded the mosque’s move, as she was not carrying any food for iftar at all.
Others like Sabrina Yasmin, who got caught in the rain, and took shelter under the shamiana, also praised the mosque’s decision.
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Around 150 women partake in the iftar at the Tipu Sultan Mosque, on a daily basis. It is beneficial, as Esplanade is a bustling shopping paradise, and many of these women find themselves at a loss of a place to break their fast appropriately.
This gender-inclusive practice implemented by one of the most iconic mosques in India has implemented signalling that the times are indeed changing!
(Edited by Gayatri Mishra)
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