Dai Anga Mosque
Located in the Naulakha area, southeast of Lahore Railway Station, the Dai Anga Mosque is a historic mosque in Lahore, Pakistan. Commissioned in 1635 by Zeb-un-Nisa, known as Dai Anga, it reflects Mughal architecture and the artistry of the 17th century (Wikipedia).
The mosque continues to serve worshippers and the wider community. It is used for prayer and reflection and hosts religious ceremonies, educational programs, and community events (Pakistan Traveler).
History
Dai Anga was the wet nurse of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and a prominent figure at the Mughal court. Construction of the mosque began in 1635, before she departed on the Hajj pilgrimage (Wikipedia). Her husband, Murad Khan, served as Magistrate of Bikaner under Emperor Jahangir. Her son, Muhammad Rashid Khan, was renowned as one of the Mughal kingdom’s best archers and died fighting in the service of Shah Jahan’s eldest son, Dara Shikoh (Pakistan Traveler).
The mosque’s use changed over time. Under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, it became a military depot. During British colonial rule, it served as a residence and office. Henry Cope, editor of the newspaper Lahore Chronicle, used it as his residence. The area, once known as Mohallah Dai Anga and populated by Mughal nobility, was acquired by the Punjab and Delhi Railway. Cope sold the mosque to the railway for Rs 12,000, and it became the office of the traffic manager, Punjab Northern State Railway (Daily Times).
In 1903, Lord Curzon expressed dismay at the treatment of the mosque and other Mughal mosques. Dai Anga Mosque was subsequently returned to the Muslims and restored to use as a place of worship (Daily Times).
The mosque is recognized as a Protected Heritage Monument by the Archaeology Department of Punjab. Preservation work has focused on maintaining its original craftsmanship, reviving faded frescoes, and repairing damage caused by time and weather (Pakistan Traveler).
What to see
The mosque combines Mughal and Persian architectural styles. Its decoration includes elaborate frescoes, intricate calligraphy, and colorful tile mosaics typical of the Shah Jahan period. Blue, orange, and yellow are prominent in the tilework, and the facade is divided into decorative panels made with mosaic kashi kari (Pakistan Traveler).
The design includes domes, minarets, and a courtyard. The tall minarets rise from square bases at the two front extremities and end in kiosk-like structures with cupolas. The mosque’s platform, once part of the courtyard, has brick flooring laid in a simple square pattern. An ablution tank has been found in the courtyard, and traces remain of what may be a second tank (Daily Times).
Dai Anga’s tomb, known as the Gulabi Bagh, is also in Lahore, along the Grand Trunk Road. Both the mosque and the tomb are examples of Mughal architecture and are associated with her legacy. Despite their historical significance, many Lahore residents are unaware of them because they are not widely promoted or recognized as tourist sites (Daily Times).
Visiting information
Hours and admission
The mosque is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Admission is free, and donations are welcome to support restoration and maintenance.
Getting there
The mosque is near Lahore Fort, though visitors may encounter heavy traffic. One route is from Nicholson Road, starting at Qila Gujjar Singh Chowk and passing the Presbyterian Church and Boharwala Chowk. Locals can provide directions (Daily Times).
Tips
- Dress modestly and respect the sanctity of the mosque.
- Early morning or late afternoon is suggested to avoid the midday heat.
- Photography is allowed; avoid flash photography inside to protect the delicate frescoes.
- Guided tours are available on request. Local guides can provide historical insights and stories about the Mughal era.
Nearby places
- Lahore Fort A UNESCO World Heritage site offering a glimpse into Mughal grandeur.
- Badshahi Mosque One of the largest mosques in the world, known for its architecture.
- Shalimar Gardens Mughal gardens noted for their beauty and historical significance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the visiting hours of Dai Anga Mosque?
The mosque is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Are guided tours available at Dai Anga Mosque?
Yes. Guided tours are available upon request, and local guides can provide historical insights and stories.
Is there an entrance fee for Dai Anga Mosque?
No. Entrance is free, but donations are welcome to support restoration efforts.
Dai Anga Mosque is a heritage site associated with Lahore’s Mughal history and the legacy of Dai Anga (Pak Yatra).
