Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain announced on Friday that the Anderkilla Shahi Jame Mosque in Chittagong will be developed as an iconic mosque, modeled after Masjid al-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
“Anderkilla Shahi Jame Mosque is a unique example of Mughal architecture. It will be developed as an iconic mosque in line with the aspirations of the local Muslim community,” he told journalists during a visit to the mosque this afternoon.
The adviser said that the project will initially commence with a sum of Tk10 crore, donated by the Kuwait Charity Fund, which has already been deposited into the ministry's fund.
“If additional funds are required, they will be sourced from the Islamic Foundation and the ministry's budget,” he added.
The design for the development project is expected to be finalized by December this year, with the foundation stone scheduled to be laid in January, the adviser said.
Regarding the mosque’s design, he noted, “Plans will ensure optimal space utilization to accommodate a large number of worshippers. The final decision regarding the preservation of the mosque's original structure will be made following discussions with experts from the archaeological department.”
He further emphasized the mosque's historical significance, saying: “The mosque is approximately 400 years old and is considered a historical archaeological site.”
The Directorate of Architecture has been tasked with preparing the design, he said, adding that the soil testing and digital survey for the project have already been completed.