The British Library in the UK houses a 19th-century watercolor of the Sunehri Masjid (also known as the Golden Mosque) of Roshan ud-Dawla in Chandni Chowk, Delhi.
The given art work was created by legendary painter Ghulam Ali Khan in 1854. It depicts the Sunehri Masjid which is also known as the Golden Mosque. It is an iconic Mosque from the 1700s built in the Chandni Chowk area of Old Delhi, India. The Mughal noble Roshan-ud-Daula built the Sunehri Masjid between 1721 and 1722 when Emperor Muhammad Shah was in charge. He built the Sunehri Masjid to honor his mentor Shah Bhik. The Sunehri Masjid is special because it has three golden domes and thin minarets. These lotus domes and minarets give a stunning look to its overall appearance.The outside of the Sunehri Masjid has three doors with arches that open into the inside. The inside of the Sunehri Masjid is divided into three parts, each with detailed artwork. The artwork has patterns and flower designs. Over time the Sunehri Masjid has changed because people have added things to it. The old building is currently also in danger because the city is growing and is at risk of encroachment.
The Sunehri Masjid holds a rich history and has witnessed important junctures in Delhi's history like the invasions of Nadir Shah.In 1739 a man named Nadir Shah from Persia attacked the city. The people who lived in Delhi fought back against Nadir Shah's army. They threw stones. Killed some of the soldiers. Nadir Shah was very angry about this. He went to the top of the Sunehri Masjid. Stood beside the golden domes. From there he could see the Chandni Chowk area. He took out his sword. Signaled to his army to start killing people thus resulting in violent massacre. The artwork till today reminds the viewers of this infamous chapter in history. The Sunehri Masjid of Delhi is still functional today. It acts not just a place of prayer for the faithful but also it holds significant value in regard to its connection with Mughal history and the invasions there after.
The Sunehri Masjid showcases the beauty of Mughal architecture and stands as a testament to one of Delhi's darkest historical moments. Its golden domes represent faith and artistic talent in the busy center of Chandni Chowk. The mosque reminds us that monuments hold both cultural beauty and memories of the past.
