Meherpur: At the heart of Anandabas village stands the nearly 150-year-old Anandabas 10-domed mosque-a structure locals describe as both a place of worship and a living testament to history, tradition, and social harmony. The mosque, known for its rare ten-domed design, has long been a silent witness to the region’s religious and cultural evolution.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, local accounts suggest that Islamic practices spread in the area under the influence of early preachers. Village elders say the mosque was built under the inspiration of Sheikh Farid, though no written records confirm the founder’s identity, and its history survives primarily through oral tradition.
Ibn Suayez Mamun, general secretary of the mosque management committee, mentioned that village elders, including Abul Master, Mofem Uddin Mandal, and Jindar Ali, cared for the mosque for decades. ‘Now their successors are continuing that responsibility,’ he added. Elderly resident Hashem Ali said he had heard from his forefathers that the mosque was built during the time of his father’s grandfather, noting its architectural uniqueness and the rarity of the lined dome design in rural areas.
The mosque’s imam, Maulana Salah Uddin, highlighted its architectural pride, stating that one of the domes is larger than that of the Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat. Built of reddish bricks, the mosque features a spacious prayer hall and an open courtyard. Though it has undergone renovations over time, locals have worked carefully to preserve its original heritage.
Jaydev Sharma, a follower of Sanatan Dharma who lives nearby, said the mosque predates his grandfather’s time. He noted that in 1338 AD, the ten-domed section was preserved as heritage, and a two-story structure and boundary wall were constructed in front. Despite the construction of six new mosques in the village, devotees continue to gather at the historic site every Friday for Jummah prayers.
Elderly Abdul Karim described the mosque as a source of pride for the village, with Muazzin Moen Uddin echoing the sentiment and noting frequent visitor interest. Residents say religious education and Islamic practices expanded around the mosque, inspiring similar architectural styles in nearby areas.
Maintained through local initiatives, the mosque continues to promote social harmony, compassion, and brotherhood. Community members believe that with archaeological recognition or government patronage, it could become one of the district’s notable historical landmarks. For the people of Anandabas, the 10-domed mosque remains more than a brick-and-mortar structure; it stands as a symbol of village identity, spiritual tranquility, and enduring unity.