Jama Masjid

by N.L. Batra, Prof.Mushirul Hasan and Prof.Mushirul Hasan

About five hundred metres west of the Red Fort stands an enduring monument to Shah Jahan's Passion- the Jama Masjid, and extraordinary specimen of architectural extravaganza built during the years 1650-1656. 

Jama Masjid- the mosque of Friday- was built from 1644 to 1658 in the reign of Shahjahan. The mosque, which measures 65m on 35m and whose court forms a square of 100m on side is, by its surface, the greatest religious construction of Islam.

The book brings to you the facts and figures about 'Jama Masjid.' On its completion, it symbolised the high point in Mughal architecture. An interesting and fascinating read.

About the Author:

N.L. Batra (A.M.I.E., Civil) is an associate member of Institute of Engineers (India). He is currently holding the post of Superintending Archaeological Engineer In Archaeological Survey of India which Is a pioneer organization In dealing with the conservation and preservation of monuments of national Importance spread over the entire length and breadth of the country.

In practice Shri Batra has been deeply Involved with the Archaeological Survey of India dealing with architectural studies of ancient buildings of historical Importance, reporting and advising for essential repairs to the monuments in distress. He has been engaged throughout his career of four decades service in this organization in documenting, surveying, executing and monitoring the large-scale conservation works of different kinds and variations. Prior to this present position, he in the capacity of Assistant Director has been independently holding the charge of conservation faculty In the Institute of Archaeology for a period of five years. He has been organizing the course in conservation and preservation of monuments for the postgraduate students in archaeology and professional engineers and architects. He has been lecturing to these students on various aspects of conservation in the institute and Imparting field training by touring to different places in India. He, as an invitee, has been lecturing in the Delhi Development Authority for the course "Environmental Pollution and Urban Development". He has also been lecturing on several topics in conservation and preservation of monuments In the National Museum Institute, New Delhi.

He has also contributed several articles on the conservation of monuments dealing with different aspects on the subject while participating in international and national seminars.