After nearly two decades of planning and construction, the Mian Salahuddin Community Mosque is complete. Located on a 650-square-metre site within a gated community, the mosque’s design was deeply influenced by poetry and spiritual reflection, specifically a poem entitled “Masjid-e-Qurtuba” by Allama Iqbal, the grandfather of the project’s namesake.
A Return to Traditional Design
Mian Salahuddin believes that older, traditional mosque architecture fosters a deeper connection to the divine than modern designs. He stated, “I believe that the architecture of traditional older mosques connects one with the divine far more than modern designs,” adding that it “symbolises the presence of the worshipper and the opening of one’s heart.” This belief, rooted in his grandfather’s verse – “Yet only that work of art is eternal, the one created by a man of God” – guided the project’s aesthetic.
Architect Taimoor Khan Mumtaz collaborated with his father, Kamil Khan Mumtaz, a renowned pioneer in the field, to ensure the design remained true to tradition. The team deliberately employed centuries-old construction methods, utilizing locally sourced burnt brick and a mixture of hydraulic and slaked lime mortar from Patoki, Kasur, and the Salt Range.
A key decision in the construction process was the avoidance of cement. According to Khan Mumtaz, “We didn’t use any cement because these factories are some of the biggest polluters in the world.” Lime was chosen instead, due to its longevity and its historical prevalence in the region for “hundreds of years.”
Looking Ahead
The completion of the Mian Salahuddin Community Mosque could inspire similar projects prioritizing traditional building methods and sustainable materials. It is likely that this mosque will serve as a model for future religious buildings seeking to balance architectural beauty with environmental consciousness. Further, the emphasis on the spiritual connection fostered by traditional design may lead to renewed interest in historical architectural styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did it take to build the Mian Salahuddin Community Mosque?
The mosque took around two decades to complete, from initial planning to final construction.
What inspired the design of the mosque?
The design was heavily influenced by a poem, “Masjid-e-Qurtuba,” written by Allama Iqbal, the grandfather of Mian Salahuddin.
What materials were used to construct the mosque?
The mosque was built using locally sourced burnt brick and a mixture of hydraulic and slaked lime mortar, avoiding the use of cement.
What role does architectural design play in fostering a spiritual connection, and how might this influence future building projects?
