People and cultures have collided since time immemorial. But when their creative instincts come together, the resulting fusion is often a treat for the eyes. Ahmedabad’s Sidi Saiyyed mosque is one such example, and is rightfully termed as a distinct specimen of Indo-Islamic architecture, known the world over for its crafty ‘Jaali’ work.
The awe-inspiring windows
Built by an Abyssinian named Sidi Saiyyed, the mosque might have a relatively simpler structure when compared to the grand mosques of India but there’s one thing that sets this monument apart. And that’s the mosque’s ten window screens, two out of which have a detailed tree design, as you see in the picture above.
Be it at the time it was built or even now, the intricate design is incredibly renowned. Back then, an imitation resembling the design can be seen in buildings in Fatehpur Sikri that were commissioned by the emperor Akbar. And in our times, replicas of ‘Sidi Saiyyed Ni Jali’ are gifted to visiting foreign delegates.
The Tree design inspired the IIM Ahmedabad symbol
The relevance of this unique architectural masterpiece doesn’t end there, though. The symbol of IIM Ahmedabad, which is one of India’s leading educational institutions, has been inspired by the ‘Tree of Life’ of the Sidi Saiyyed mosque in Ahmedabad.
Knock Knock
So, if you’re anywhere near Ahmedabad and in the mood to soak in some masterful architecture, head to the Sidi Saiyyed mosque in Ahmedabad. And guess what? The entry to this monument is absolutely FREE!
Where: Bhadra Rd, Opposite Electricity House, Old City, Gheekanta, Lal Darwaja, Ahmedabad
Timings: 07:00 AM – 06:00 PM
