Kondungallur: Land of harmonious co-existence

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By K A Shaji

January 29, 2023

In Kodungallur in Kerala’s Thrissur district, an oil lamp is said to have been burning continuously for over a thousand years at a local masjid.

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Believed to be the world’s third and India’s first centre of Islamic worship, people of all faiths bring oil to keep the lamp in the Cheraman Masjid flickering as an offering.

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Locals believe the mosque was established in 629 AD. For them, it is a symbol of hope and unity, especially during adversities.

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An active place of Islamic worship used daily by more than 700 devout Muslim residents of the area, it attracts Hindus and Christians as well.

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According to a legend, Cheraman Perumal, the erstwhile ruler of Kodungallur, travelled to Madinah after a dream to meet the Prophet and embraced Islam.

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Before dying, he told his travel companions, including Malik bin Dinar, to spread Islam’s message in his homeland.

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Dinar came to Kerala and established the Cheraman Masjid and some other prominent mosques in the state.

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The incident has been mentioned in several Muslim texts and old Hindu history books like Keralolpatti (The Origin of Kerala).

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An integral part of the ongoing Muziris heritage conservation effort, the mosque’s restoration was in tune with its original character and aesthetics.

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The mosque has a rectangular pond on one side. As per legend, the mosque was originally a Buddhist place of worship — hence the rectangular pond.

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Visitors can see many places of worship nearby. Hardly 50 metres away, you can see a Hindu temple. There are at least five churches in the vicinity.

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