The Siri Fort area, known as Delhi’s third city, is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of architecture and archaeology. While some monuments in this region are well-known, there are several lesser-known gems scattered across the locality. One such hidden treasure is the Mohammad Wali Masjid, situated near the bustling cultural hub of Siri Fort Auditorium.
Today, Siri Fort is synonymous with cultural events and elite gatherings, hosting film festivals and sporting events. The Siri Fort Auditorium and the nearby Sports Complex are central to these activities. Amidst this modern landscape lies the Mohammad Wali Masjid, often overlooked due to its modest size and secluded position behind tall walls at the edge of a vast open field.
The mosque is located near remains of the Siri Fort walls, remnants that survived extensive demolitions of old Siri during the construction of the Siri Sports Complex and Village for the 1982 Asian Games. Despite the loss of much archaeological heritage, these walls still offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the bygone era. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has provided a helpful map near the mosque’s entrance to guide visitors through the remaining historical sites.
Built around the 15th century by one of the Lodhi rulers (1451-1526 AD), Mohammad Wali Masjid stands just outside the original walls of Siri Fort. The mosque’s structure is characteristic of the period, featuring a three-bay design with a single dome perched on an octagonal drum above the central bay. The east-facing facade boasts three arched entrances, once adorned with blue tiles, most of which have unfortunately been lost over time.
Upon entering the mosque, visitors are greeted by a beautifully painted ceiling with maroon lines and a calligraphic central design in incised plaster. While the rest of the interior is relatively plain—likely stripped of its original decorations over time—it still features intricate incised plaster (stucco) medallions inscribed with Quranic verses. A stairway on the south side, closed during my visit, provides access to the roof.
Adjacent to the mosque, across a grassy area and pathway, lies a burial ground. Although much of this ground was lost during the renovations for the Asian Games, some tombs remain visible amidst the vegetation.
While Mohammad Wali Masjid no longer functions as a mosque and was even used as a fodder store by local villagers until 1924, its historical and cultural value endures. The ASI eventually cleared the site, preserving what remains of this historical structure. Today, the mosque is set within a lush park, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Its serene environment makes it a perfect spot for reflection and rest, offering visitors a chance to connect with Delhi’s rich history in a tranquil setting.
Please ‘Like’ or add a comment if you enjoyed this blog post. If you’d like to be notified of any new content, just sign up by clicking the ‘Follow’ button. If you have enjoyed this or any other of my posts, please consider buying me a coffee. There’s a facility to do so on the righthand side of this website for desktop users, and just above the comment section for mobile users. Thank you !
If you’re interested in using any of my photography or articles please get in touch. I’m also available for any freelance work worldwide, my duffel bag is always packed ready to go…
[email protected]
kevinstandagephotography.wordpress.com
