Unique mosque draws throngs of visitors

Building was constructed two decades ago with purely traditional materials

GUJRAT:

Located around 20 kilometers from Gujrat, Masjid Pak Wiggah Sharif stands as an example of unique and modern architecture, historical and religious significance and devotion and love of Islam.

The construction of the mosque was started around 22 years ago by Dr Hafiz Mohammad Farrukh Hafeez, a resident of Kadhar Sharif. Due to his immense attachment to religion, he himself laid the foundation stone in 2001.

The mosque, composed of highly-decorated white marble, was established on an area of four kanals. Lime, mud and brick powder were mixed and used as mortar in the mosque’s construction.

The 4.5 million bricks in the foundation were connected in an arched manner to provide protection against earthquakes and cracks caused by gas emissions.

Masjid Pak Wiggah Sharif has become an image of timeless art due to its unique architecture, calligraphy and white marble exterior, which has also been beautifully decorated with calligraphy. A large number of people visit the mosque on a daily basis.

Mosque caretaker Sahibzada Ahsan Hafeez told The Express Tribune that artisans and devotees took part in the construction out of religious fervor and artistic zeal. Neither iron rods nor cement were used in the construction of the mosque. So far, around Rs19 billion was spent on building this mosque.

In the premises adjacent to the mosque, a free eye camp is organized and a weekly langar (free food) is held for visitors and worshippers.

Abdul Rahman, the mosque administrator, said that the beauty of the mosque is exemplary in every respect and can also be observed at night.

Even after the passing of Hafiz Muhammad Farrukh Hafeez, work is being carried out to maintain the mosque’s beauty with the same spirit.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 10^th, 2023.