By S M Zahid Hossain

KHULNA, April 16, 2025 (BSS) - With an impressive combination of modern architecture and Islamic tradition, the central Jame Mosque of Khulna University (KU) has emerged not only as a religious site, but also as one of the most iconic landmarks in the region.

Alongside worshipers, the mosque draws huge crowds with its unique design that harmonizes with the natural environment and its most striking feature - the Middle Eastern-style grand dome.

Inaugurated on August 28, 2020, the mosque spans over one acre of land and can accommodate up to 3,000 worshippers at a time, arranged in 30 rows. It serves as a major spiritual center for students and hosts daily gatherings of devotees, particularly from the university community.

Situated at the heart of the campus, the mosque's architecture is visually stunning and stands as a fine example of Islamic art. Designed to allow natural airflow the interior remains cool throughout the day, eliminating the need for air conditioning. Elegant geometric patterns enhance its beauty and instantly capture the attention of viewers.

Its strategic location-right in front of three male student dormitories and adjacent to Academic Buildings 1, 2, and 3, as well as the Kazi Nazrul Islam Central Library-makes it highly accessible for the university community.

The initiative to build such a signature mosque was taken in 2003 by the KU authorities, led by the then Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. M. Abdul Quader Bhuiyan. Muhammad Ali Naqi, a faculty member of the Architecture Discipline at the time, crafted the initial design.

However, after the foundation was laid, construction work remained stalled for several years.

In 2014, then Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. Mohammad Fayek Uzzaman took the initiative to resume and complete the construction of the mosque.

Later, the university authorities finalized the design with slight modifications. The final version was refined and completed by Associate Professor Md. Sheikh Maruf Hossain of the Architecture Discipline.

During a visit on Tuesday, an interactive display board was seen installed to provide detailed information about the mosque in a more accessible way for visitors and worshippers.

Talking to BSS, the Senior Imam and Khatib of the mosque, Mufti Abdul Quddus, mentioned that the university administration aims to further beautify the mosque and promote the true teachings of Islam.

He said under the guidance of the current Vice-Chancellor, Prof Dr. Rezaul Karim, various innovative initiatives have been taken to enhance not only the mosque but also other parts of the KU campus.

Prof Sharif Mohammad Khan, Chairman of the Mosque Management Committee, said that various mosque-based initiatives and future development plans have already been set in motion and will be implemented very soon.

When contacted, Vice-Chancellor of KU, Prof Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim, remarked that the mosque is not merely a religious structure but has become a spiritual centre for students, teachers, officials, and staff.

This mosque has become an invaluable part of KU's heritage and culture. Due to its architectural brilliance, beauty, and spiritual importance, it is growing in popularity, he added.

Due to its unique design and spiritual significance, the mosque has drawn visitors from across the country. Many come not only to pray but also to admire its architectural beauty-making it an enduring symbol of KU's heritage and identity.