Contents

Chapter 1 :
Chapter 1 : Synopsis ................................................................................................ 2
Aim:..................................................................................................................... 2
Introduction ......................................................................................................... 2
Objectives............................................................................................................ 3
Chapter 2 : Literature Review .................................................................................... 4
Location .............................................................................................................. 4
History ................................................................................................................. 5
History of Mosque ................................................................................................ 5
Design of Mosque ................................................................................................. 6
Chapter 3 : Islamic Philosophies And the Mosque Design ........................................... 8
Islamic Philosophies and architecture ................................................................... 8
Integration of light ................................................................................................. 8
Traditional Elements and Contemporary Expression ............................................... 9
Simplicity and Spirituality in Form: ......................................................................... 9
Harmony with Nature and Climate: ...................................................................... 10
Chapter 4 : interplay of light, Organisation and functionality …………………………………..

Chapter 5 : Social and cultural Impact …………………………………………………………………

 Chapter 1 : Synopsis
Aim:
To study the architectural features of Haji Abdul Rauf Mosque and its cultural and social

Impact on society

Figure 1 Haji Abdur Rauf Mosque

Introduction
The Haji Abdul Rauf Mosque, situated in Malegaon, Maharashtra, was completed

in 2016 under the leadership of NBZ Architects, a Nashik-based architectural firm. The

construction, initiated in 2011, built on a 900 square meter plot within the developing

residential zone of eastern Malegaon.

The mosque's design places a significant focus on the interplay of light, drawing

inspiration from historical Islamic architecture. The interior features a double-volume

space with a mezzanine floor serving as a women's prayer hall. The qibla wall

incorporates various entrances and exit points to enhance accessibility. This thoughtful

design not only creates a serene and calm interior but also contributes to a spiritual

experience through a unique composition of colours and geometry. Overall, the Haji

Abdul Rauf Mosque stands as a contemporary architectural masterpiece, seamlessly

blending tradition with modernity.

 Objectives
1. To understand the philosophy and approach of design to blend Islamic
philosophies with contemporary elements
2. To study the interplay of light and its relationship with Organization, functionality
and spirituality
3. To study how it affected the regional people and their views on the same
 Chapter 2 : Literature Review
Location

Figure 2 Map of Malegaon Indicating the location of mosque

Malegaon indeed holds significant importance in Maharashtra, both economically and

culturally. Its strategic location, situated at the convergence of the Mosam and Girna
rivers, has historically contributed to its growth and development. With its proximity to
Nashik and its accessibility via major highways like NH 3, Malegaon serves as a vital
hub in the region.

The city's demographic composition, with a significant Muslim population, has shaped
its cultural landscape and earned it the nickname "city of Masjids." Additionally,
Malegaon's economy revolves around industries such as power looms and weaving,
which provide employment to a large portion of its inhabitants. Moreover, the presence
of plastic and power industries further contributes to its economic vibrancy. Malegaon's
rich tapestry of culture is reflected in its vibrant bazaars, where one can witness a
fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern commerce.

Overall, Malegaon stands as a bustling urban centre in Maharashtra, characterized by

its rich cultural heritage, thriving industries, and strategic location.
 History

The communal polarization in Malegaon stems from its historical context and
geographic significance. Initially known as 'Maliwadi', Malegaon gained prominence as a
junction and a hub for employment. The construction of the Malegaon Fort by Naro
Shankar Raje Bahadur in 1740 attracted Muslim artisans and workers from North India
and Surat, who settled in the city. The British capture of the fort in 1818 and subsequent
settlement of Muslims from Hyderabad, as well as migrants during the Revolt of 1857,
further contributed to the Muslim population growth. Over time, various national
scenarios compelled Muslims from different regions to relocate to Malegaon, resulting
in its significant Muslim demographic.

History of Mosque
In 2001, a prosperous businessman and his wife acquired a combined plot in
Malegaon's eastern power loom district, envisioning the construction of a distinctive
mosque as a gesture of gratitude to Allah. Entrusting this sacred duty to their sons, the
father's passing in 2007 left behind a solemn Waqf deed. The elder son, burdened with
the weighty responsibility of honoring his father's legacy, embarked on the task of
realizing a mosque that would epitomize the core tenets of Islam through its
architectural splendor. Commencing in 2011 and culminating in 2016, the construction
journey mirrored the family's steadfast commitment to their faith.

Spanning 900 square meters within a burgeoning residential enclave of eastern

Malegaon, the plot's strategic positioning is accentuated by a prominent thoroughfare
to the west and secondary streets to the north and south. True to the founder's vision,
the mosque aspires to be more than a place of worship; it is poised to evolve into a
sanctuary for contemplation, spiritual enlightenment, and communal engagement,
fostering a tapestry of socio-economic activities for generations to come.
 Design of Mosque
The design incorporates the essential elements of a mosque to create a new
form and articulation for a typography that goes back for a millennium and a half. The
result is a series of cuboids of different sizes paired to create a monolithic composition
externally accentuated by a minar to form a well-balanced sky line and varying volumes
internally with changing functions. Emphasis on indirect natural light through south-
west and north-west corners of the west wall and a diffused light from the dome in the
main prayer hall create an ethereal sense of Candor.

The journey for the devout to offer

prayers from the MUEZZIN’S CALL to
the OBLIGATION is made
transcendental by the simplicity of
the structure finished in exposed
brickwork laid to follow fine lines
with precise junctions reflecting
spirituality of the form. Provision of
indirect light source through the
morphology of the structure is
adopted to create serenity in the
space to enhance the process of offering prayers. Intensely worked out roof-light detail
above the man prayer hall further integrates with the pious offering of “Namaaz”.

The western façade strongly reflects the massing created by indirect placement of
windows on the North and the South corners along with Qibla, which has defined
horizontal lines. The building is placed on the site embraced with a combination of hard
and soft landscape with gentle curves to accentuate the footprint of the Mosque
 Figure 3 Ground floor plan of the mosque

The Plan follows the axis defined by the direction of “Qibla, with reference to the
location of Kaaba” integrating the main prayer hall and the secondary prayer area
(sehan) with open to sky semi-circular water body and plantation court flanked by areas
for ablution and related facilities.

The mosque is characterized by a complex plan which is aligned to minor roads on

north and south and aligned to qibla direction on the west where the major road lies.
The skew thus created between street directions and that of qibla is used to house
ablution facilities, office and store on the north east and south east sides. Entrances to
mosque from the north and south sides create a movement axis which does not disturb
the main prayer hall even with a large attendance of people. North side entrance
connects to stair which leads to the prayer hall on the mezzanine floor with separate
ablution facilities. This upper level prayer hall is reserved for women whenever required.
The south east side of the mezzanine floor is for the use of the imam of the mosque and
visitors.

The Design of the structure addresses the harsh climate of Malegaon which is hot-dry
summers and cold dry winters. The main envelop of the structure is wrapped in double
skin masonry cavity walls and hollow clay block insulation for the roof. Controlled
openings and use of indirect light from the façade as well as the roof provide human
comfort level desired in such climate.
 Chapter 3 : Islamic Philosophies And the Mosque
Design
Islamic Philosophies and architecture
Islamic philosophy deeply influences the design and architecture of mosques,
evident in various aspects of their construction. Firstly, the concept of Tawhid,
emphasizing the oneness of God, is reflected in mosque architecture through
geometric patterns and symmetrical designs, fostering a sense of unity among
worshippers. Symbolism plays a significant role, with features like minarets and domes
symbolizing the transcendence of God, inspiring reverence, and awe. Furthermore,
mosques are designed to accommodate communal worship, reflecting Islamic
philosophy's emphasis on collective prayer and
community solidarity. The intricate designs and
calligraphy adorning mosque interiors celebrate the
beauty and perfection of God's creation, serving as
reminders of divine presence. Despite their ornate
appearances, mosque designs prioritize
functionality and simplicity, with layouts facilitating
Islamic rituals such as prayer and purification.
Together, these architectural elements embody
Islamic principles and ideals, creating spaces that
not only facilitate worship but also serve as physical
manifestations of spiritual belief Figure 4

Integration of light
In the design of the abdur rauf Mosque , the
concept of light is not merely a physical component
but also a spiritual element. Light symbolizes
enlightenment, guidance, and the presence of the
divine. By integrating light into the design, the
mosque seeks to elevate believers from a tangible to
an intangible state of mind, facilitating a deeper
spiritual experience. The emphasis on indirect
natural light and diffused light creates an ethereal
sense of candor within the sacred space, enhancing
the process of offering prayers and fostering a serene
atmosphere conducive to spiritual reflection.

Figure 5 Interior( source : author )

Traditional Elements and Contemporary Expression
While the Masjid fulfills the traditional role of a mosque as a place of spirituality
and worshipers, it also embodies a contemporary expression of Islamic architecture.
The design incorporates essential elements of mosque typology while reinterpreting
them to create a new form and articulation that reflects the ethos of the 21st century.
The result is a series of cuboids of different sizes paired to create a monolithic
composition externally, accentuated by a minaret, and varying volumes internally with
changing functions. This juxtaposition of tradition and innovation pays homage to
Islamic heritage while embracing modernity.

Figure 6 Prayer Hall ( source : author )

Simplicity and Spirituality in Form:

The simplicity of the mosque's structure, finished in exposed brickwork with
precise junctions, reflects the spirituality of its form. The journey for the devout, from
the Muezzin's call to prayer to the
obligation of offering prayers, is
made transcendental by the
minimalist design, which evokes a
sense of purity and sincerity. The
intensely worked-out roof-light
detail above the main prayer hall
further integrates with the act of
prayer, enhancing the spiritual
experience for worshipers
Harmony with Nature and Climate:
The design of the Masjid at Malegaon takes into account the harsh climate of the
region, characterized by hot-dry summers and cold dry winters. Through controlled
openings and the use of indirect light, the mosque ensures a comfortable environment
for worshippers while maintaining a connection with the natural world. The integration
of landscape elements, such as gentle curves and semi-circular water bodies,
enhances the harmony between the built environment and nature, further enriching the
spiritual experience.

Recognizing the challenging climatic conditions of Malegaon, the design

employs innovative techniques to optimize thermal comfort and energy efficiency.
Double-skin masonry cavity walls and hollow clay block insulation form the main
envelope, providing effective insulation against extreme temperatures.