Kerala is home to a vibrant Muslim community, and there are several important mosques in the state that hold religious and cultural significance. Here are nine important mosques in Kerala:
Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur is considered to be the first mosque in India. Cheraman Juma Mosque(Malayalam: ചേരമാൻ ജുമാ മസ്ജിദ്) holds historical importance as it is believed to have been built by Malik Ibn Dinar, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, in the 7th century. Cheraman Juma Masjid is a Kerala style mosque with hanging lamps, making the historicity of its date claims more convincing. The mosque is located in the Paravur–Kodungalloor Road, NH-66, Methala, Kodungallur, Thrissur.
Masjid-i Jahān-Numā (the 'World-reflecting Mosque'), commonly known as the Palayam Juma Masjid, is one of the oldest and most prominent mosques in Kerala. Palayam Juma Masjid, situated in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, is the principal mosque of Trivandrum in Kerala. The masjid is known for its beautiful architecture and serves as a significant religious and cultural center. The history of Palayam Juma Masjid dates back to 1813 AD.
Ponnani Juma Masjid in Malappuram, also known as Ponnani Valiya Jumath Palli, is regarded as the Makkah of Kerala Muslims. One of the oldest mosques in Kerala, Valiya Jumuath Palli, Ponnani is a renowned center for Islamic education and holds an important place in the history of Islam in the region. Sayyid Alawi Mawla al-Dawilah Mampuram Thangal, the great a Hadrami Islamic scholar, used to visit Ponnani Juma Masjid. Sheikh Zainuddin Makhdoom himself started teaching in the Masjid.
Beemapally Mosque, situated in Beemapally, Thiruvananthapuram, is famous for its annual Urs (annual urus) festival, which attracts devotees from various faiths. Beemapalli Dargah Shareef houses the tomb of Syedunnisa Beema Beevi, a revered Muslim saint and her son Syedu Shuhada Maheen Abubacker. Beemapally Urs festival, marks the death anniversary of Syedunnisa Beema Beevi, is a ten day festival which begins on the first day of Islamic month Jumada al-Akhir.
Mampuram Mosque is an important mosque located in Tirurangadi in the Malappuram District of Kerala. This ancient mosque is renowned for its unique architecture. It is believed to have been constructed during the time of the Zamorin dynasty and attracts visitors for its historical and architectural significance. Mampuram mosque is one of the most prominent pilgrim centers of Sunni Muslims of Kerala. A Swalath Majlis is conducted every Thursday at the Dargah. The annual Uroos festival at Mampuram Mosqueis conducted from the first to the seventh of Muharram month.
Jama Masjid or Jamaat Mosque, in Malappuram is one of the largest mosques in Kerala. Jama-at Mosque is a 600-year-old mosque and an important pilgrim centre of the Muslims of Kerala. It is a significant center for Islamic education and cultural activities. The mosque features intricate woodwork and calligraphy. There is a mausoleum near the mosque which is dedicated to the Malappuram shaheeds (martyrs) of Mopilla revolt. The four-day annual festival at the mosque (nercha) is celebrated in April.
Valiya Juma Masjid, situated in Kozhikode, is one of the oldest and most revered mosques in Kerala. It is known for its impressive architecture and has historical significance in the region.
Puthenpalli Juma Masjid is a famous mosque located at Erattupetta in Kottayam district of Kerala. The famous Chandanakudam is celebrated here in February/December.c
Muhiyudheen Mosque, situated in Kodungallur, is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims. Built in AD 629, it is the first mosque in India and the second in the world where Juma prayers were started. Situated just 2 km from Kodungalloor Town, its calm and mystical charm must be experienced if one is in the vicinity. The mosque holds religious and cultural significance.
These mosques in Kerala reflect the rich Islamic heritage and traditions of the state. They serve as places of worship, centers for Islamic education, and symbols of the unity and diversity of the Muslim community in Kerala.