Darya Ganj Mosques: A Historical Walk Through Zeenat Ul Masjid and the Sunheri Masjids

Rajkumari Sharma Tankha

Darya Ganj, in the heart of Old Delhi, is home to four historically significant mosques. Among these, three are famously known as Sunheri Masjids, named for their gilded wooden domes that once shone like gold under the sun. The fourth mosque is the majestic Zeenat Ul Masjid, a remarkable example of Mughal architecture.

Zeenat Ul Masjid: Shahjahan’s Daughter’s Legacy

Built around 1700 by Zeenat-un-Nissa, the spiritually-minded daughter of Emperor Shahjahan, Zeenat Ul Masjid is a classic Mughal-era mosque featuring minars, three striped domes, an upturned lotus, a string of kalashes, and a lily finial. Even today, it serves as an active place of worship.

Zeenat-un-Nissa was deeply influenced by her aunt Jahan Ara and patronised art, calligraphy, and pious individuals. After her death, a small tomb was erected in her memory. However, following the 1857 War of Independence, the British demolished the tomb, repurposing the mosque as a bakery for their army. It was restored to the people of Delhi in 1877. The mosque is also known as Ghata Masjid, named after its south-facing entrance toward the Ghat of the Walled City.

The Sunheri Masjids: Golden Domes of Darya Ganj

The three Sunheri Masjids each have unique historical significance:

1. Sunheri Masjid near Gurudwara Sisganj – The most prominent of the three, this mosque was constructed by Qudsia Begum, consort of Mughal ruler Muhammad Shah. Built in 1751 by Javed Khan under her orders, it was renovated in 1852 by Bahadur Shah Zafar. Like other local monuments, it was confiscated by the British in 1857 but later restored. Today, it continues to be a functional mosque.

2. Sunheri Masjid on Netaji Subhash Road – Built in 1720 by Roshan-ud-Daula Zafar Khan, this mosque originally had a golden dome. The dome was later removed to repair the more frequented Sunheri Masjid near Gurudwara Sisganj. Despite the missing dome, the mosque remains active for daily prayers.

3. Sunheri Masjid near Gurudwara Sisganj – Located on Chandni Chowk, this mosque is historically noted for its height (2.1 meters from ground level) and green floral patterns. Constructed either in 1721 or around 1744–45, it was also used by Persian invader Nadir Shah in 1739 to observe the massacre he ordered, which tragically claimed 30,000 lives. Extensions have been added over time to accommodate increasing worshippers.

Why Darya Ganj Mosques Are Historically Important

These mosques are not just places of worship but living testaments to Delhi’s rich Mughal heritage. They reflect the city’s blend of spirituality, politics, and culture over the centuries. Visiting them offers a glimpse into Mughal-era architecture, the artistry of gilded domes, and the historical narratives of Old Delhi.

If you are exploring Old Delhi, make sure to include Zeenat Ul Masjid and the three Sunheri Masjids in your itinerary to experience a blend of history, architecture, and spirituality that has survived the test of time.