24 August 2024 - turtuktourism.in

Nestled in the picturesque village of Turtuk, the Jama Masjid Turtuk stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. This mosque, with its deep roots in the past, not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the enduring spirit of the local community. jama masjid turtuk Origins and Historical SignificanceDemolition and Archaeological DiscoveriesCultural Influence and Architectural HeritageA Symbol of Religious HarmonyConclusion Origins and Historical Significance The exact date of the original construction of Jama Masjid Turtuk remains a mystery. However, records indicate that it was reconstructed in 1690 AD, corresponding to 1111 Hijri in the Islamic calendar. These records, inscribed in Persian, were discovered during a reconstruction effort in 2001 after the mosque was partially damaged by shelling during the 1999 Kargil War. In a remarkable discovery, these records were found preserved in a mud pot along with verses from the Quran, recited by Imam Abdul Karim, Imam Abdullah, and others. These documents were carefully re-preserved in the mosque, ensuring that the history of the mosque continues to be remembered and honored. the texture and craft of the old mosque before its demolition Demolition and Archaeological Discoveries The reconstruction of the mosque, which began in 2001 and concluded in 2007, revealed fascinating insights into the past. During excavations between 2002 and 2004, archaeologists uncovered evidence of earlier structures beneath the mosque, including skeletons buried with precious stone jewelry. These findings suggest that the site was once home to followers of Bonism or a similar pre-Islamic faith, as the practice of burying the deceased with their belongings is characteristic of these ancient beliefs. villagers at rest, during the reconstruction of Jama Masjid Turtuk The records found in the mosque also suggest that some of its structures were originally taken from a ruined fort, which predates 1690. This connection to an ancient fort adds another layer to the historical significance of the site, indicating that Turtuk’s civilization dates back over a thousand years. Cultural Influence and Architectural Heritage Local lore connects the mosque to the famous Sufi saint Syed Shah Hamdani (r.a), who is said to have visited the region in the late 14th century. According to legend, after constructing a small mosque or meditation place in Tyakshi, a religious center at the time, Hamdani sent his stick to Turtuk with one of his disciples, instructing him to build a mosque and place the stick there as a mark of his visit. Remarkably, this stick remains in the Jama Masjid Turtuk today, further linking the mosque to the region’s spiritual history. Few days before the demolition The mosque's minaret, a later addition, was constructed in the 1900s by Apo Mahma (Mohammad) Mansha pa, along with that the Tsom (a traditional architectural design) was build by Apo Baim (Ibrahim) Tsarma pa and Apo Makhmon Bari pa . The most recent reconstruction, which took six years to complete, was led by Mr. Amanullah Samad Pa, a master carpenter from the village. He, along with other local carpenters and masons, meticulously crafted wooden plates and designs that reflect traditional Balti artistry. These Panjara (designed tablets) were designed with Youngdrung, Mutaqeel, Islim, Mendok, and Nhenas etc, preserve the cultural heritage of the region. Despite the use of modern construction materials in the reconstruction, the wooden crafts retain a glimpse of the mosque’s rich history. However, the transformation from the original structure to a concrete building led to some opposition. Many elders and renowned carpenters voiced their concerns, advocating for the preservation of the historical mosque. Unfortunately, space constraints and a lack of awareness about the historical value led to the new construction, which, while functional, replaced much of the original marvel. A Symbol of Religious Harmony In 2007, the newly reconstructed mosque was inaugurated by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who visited the site and delivered a message of religious harmony. His visit was not just symbolic but also practical, as he sponsored the education of local children in his schools, contributing to the revival of the Balti script and culture in the region. his holiness dalai-lama with then councillor Haji Ab Qadir and then Goba Gh Mohd The Jama Masjid Turtuk also reflects the diverse religious history of the Turtuk region. The first known Islamic sect in the area was Nurbakshi, a Sufi tradition introduced by Imam Shah Nurbaksh (r.a). Over time, Sunni sects like Ahle Hadees and Ahle Sunnat also established themselves in Turtuk. Despite these differences, the beauty of Turtuk lies in its long-standing tradition of shared worship. For centuries, followers of different Islamic sects prayed together in the same mosque, a testament to the region’s spirit of unity and tolerance. Conclusion Jama Masjid Turtuk is more than just a mosque; it is a living history book that tells the story of Turtuk’s spiritual and cultural journey. From its mysterious origins to its connection with Sufi saints and its role in the community’s religious life, the mosque is a symbol of the region’s enduring faith and resilience. Yet, there is a profound sense of loss felt by many in the community. The replacement of the original historical marvel with a modern concrete building has left a void that cannot be easily filled. The intricate wooden crafts, the ancient architecture, and the spiritual aura that once defined the mosque have largely been replaced by modern materials, erasing a tangible link to the past. Elders who remember the old structure lament this change, as it represents not just the loss of a building, but the fading of a rich cultural and historical legacy. The new mosque, while functional and sturdy, cannot replicate the soul and history that the original structure embodied. Despite this, the essence of the mosque’s rich past continues to resonate in its walls, its artifacts, and in the hearts of the people who cherish it.

Jama Masjid Turtuk: A Historical and Cultural Legacy

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Day: 24 August 2024

Jama Masjid Turtuk: A Historical and Cultural Legacy