Did You Know That The World's 2nd Oldest Mosque To Start Juma Is In Kerala?

Eid 2025 | The Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur, Kerala, is a remarkable specimen of India's far reaching cultural and historical legacy. Founded in 629 CE by the Persian scholar and explorer Malik Bin Dinar, the mosque is often regarded as the first mosque in the entire Indian subcontinent. It is also credited as the world's second oldest mosque to hold juma, or the congregational Friday prayer in Islam.

As a relief to historical preservation, recent improvements of no little significance to this ancient mosque have brought back its former architectural splendour, drawing attention from historians, tourists and devotees. Outlook Traveller delves into the details of this mosque in Kerala, and outlines all that one needs to know before visiting.

Restoration to Original Glory

A thorough repair effort dedicated towards Cheraman Juma Masjid was started in May 2019 under the auspices of the Muziris Heritage Project (MHP), a state-run program designed to protect Kerala's historic and cultural landmarks. At an estimated cost of INR 1.14 crore, the refurbishment worked towards the restoration of the mosque's traditional elegance and modest design. Dexterous research entailing inspection of old photos and historical documents were employed to reconstruct the building to its former state after modern additions from 1974 were removed. The mosque's former splendour was restored as a result of this painstaking, nearly 30-month-long effort.

History of Cheraman Juma Masjid

Malik Ibn Dinar constructed the Cheraman Juma Masjid in AD 629. This mosque is thought to have been constructed during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad and is regarded as the first mosque in India, and the second in the globe when Juma prayers were initiated.

The last Cheraman Perumal, the Chera ruler, is said to have seen the Prophet and converted to Islam while travelling to Arabia. Following that, he dispatched Malik Ibn Dinar to Kerala to deliver messages to his family members. He asked his family members to give Malik Ibn Dinar their full support through the letters.

Even though Malik Ibn Dinar is credited for building the Cheraman Juma masjid, it has undergone multiple modifications throughout the years, combining elements of Middle Eastern and traditional Kerala architecture.

Architectural Features

With its elaborate wooden doors and tiled roof, the Cheraman Juma Masjid resembles a traditional Kerala tharavad (ancestral house), in contrast to common mosques with domes and minarets. The qibla, or direction of prayer, is orientated towards Mecca inside, and worshippers are provided with prayer mats. An iconic element is the old oil lamp, which is thought to have been burning nonstop for more than a thousand years thanks to oil brought in by followers.

Islamic Heritage Museum

The Islamic History Museum, created as a component of the Muziris Heritage Project, stands next to the mosque. Through information panels, visual media, murals, and paintings telling the Cheraman Perumal narrative, this museum provides insights into the history of Islam in Kerala. The museum also makes use of audio-visual presentations to commemorate Kodungallur's contribution to India's freedom movement and shows the history of Muslim monarchs.

Nearby Attractions

There are several notable landmarks in Kodungallur. The Thiruvanchikulam Shiva Temple, the Keezhthali Siva Temple, and the ancient dig sites Cheramanparambu and Kottappuram Fort are also close by. A tranquil beach experience awaits at Azhikode Beach, which is roughly six km west of the mosque.

Visiting the Mosque

To get to the mosque, you must reach the Cochin International Airport, which is around 34 km from Kodungallur. From the airport, one can take public transit or rent a cab. An alternative would be to take a rail to Ernakulam (approximately 40 km distant) or Aluva (about 30 km away), then take a quick drive.