Jahangeer Ganaie
Pulwama, Jan 30: A 400-year-old Mughal era mosque in Shadimarg area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district is in shambles while the locals here have demanded its preservation.
Locals from Shadimarg area of Pulwama said that Mosque is a heritage site of immense archaeological and cultural significance that needs to be preserved and renovated.
They said that this 400-year-old mosque, constructed during the Mughal era, stands as a symbol of the region’s rich architectural and historical legacy.
Shahnawaz Shah, a local resident, said that designed in the Mughal architectural style, the mosque features robust walls, intricate craftsmanship, and a unique structural design that reflects the grandeur of the period.
He said that the mosque, nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Shadimarg, has the potential to be a significant tourist attraction.
Reyaz Ahmad, another local, said that site offers visitors a glimpse into Kashmir’s vibrant past, cultural richness, and timeless beauty.
He said that despite its historical importance, this mosque is now in a deplorable state with parts of the structure deteriorating due to neglect and exposure to natural elements.
Its current condition not only threatens its existence but also deprives future generations of an invaluable piece of initiating a renovation and preservation project for this historical mosque, locals said.
They said that renovating the site will not only safeguard its architectural and cultural essence but also serve as a potential boost to tourism in Pulwama.
The locals, too, are deeply attached to this monument and are willing to cooperate in every possible way to preserve it, they said and urged the Tourism department to take immediate steps to assess the site, allocate funds, and implement necessary restoration work.
Meanwhile, MLA Pulwama Waheed Ur Rehman Parra has also sought attention of the Tourism and Culture department for preserving and renovating this mosque of Mughal era.
“400-year-old Mughal-era mosque in Shadimarg, Pulwama, is on the brink of ruin. This heritage site deserves urgent attention for preservation and restoration. Requesting @JandKTourism @MudgalYasha to intervene and safeguard this rich cultural legacy for future generations. FYI @DullooAtal @jkculturedept.” Parra said in a post on ‘X’.
