400-year-old Mughal-era Masjid in Pulwama set for restoration after decades of neglect
Pulwama, Nov 12: Hidden amid apple orchards and narrow lanes of Shadimarg village, about 10 kilometres from Pulwama town, stands a 400-year-old Mughal-era Masjid, a relic of Kashmir’s architectural heritage now struggling to survive after decades of neglect.
Built of deodar wood, stone and mud, the Masjid is believed to have been constructed during the reign of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, when Pulwama served as a resting point for imperial caravans moving between Srinagar and Shopian. The adjoining Mughal sarai (travellers’ inn) once sheltered merchants and soldiers, but like the Masjid, it too has fallen into ruin.
Over the years, harsh winters, moisture seepage and lack of upkeep have taken a severe toll. The once-solid walls are now deeply cracked, wooden beams have decayed, and portions of the roof have caved in, forcing villagers to stop offering regular prayers there for safety reasons.
“Our elders say the Masjid was a place of learning and prayer for travellers during Mughal times,” said Khurshid Ahmad Mir, a resident. “We tried to repair parts of the roof with our own funds several times, but it was only a temporary solution. The structure needed proper restoration.”
After years of local representations to the administration, the government has sanctioned Rs 22 lakh for its restoration. Officials said tendering has been completed and work will begin shortly under the supervision of the Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, in coordination with the local Auqaf Committee.
“Tendering has been done, and the restoration work will start soon,” said Ghulam Mohidin Mir, MLA Rajpora, who played a key role in pursuing the case. “Both the Masjid and the adjoining sarai will be restored to preserve their historical and cultural significance.”
The restoration aims to retain the original Mughal architectural elements — including carved wooden beams, arched windows, and the central mihrab — while strengthening the structure with locally sourced timber and lime plaster.
For the villagers, the move comes as a huge relief and a matter of pride. “It’s more than just a place of worship. It connects us to our roots and to centuries of our history,” said Javed Ahmad, pointing to the fading motifs on the Masjid’s façade. “We hope this effort will revive the identity of Shadimarg as a heritage village.”
Locals say once restored, the Masjid could attract heritage tourists and scholars, offering Pulwama a place on Kashmir’s cultural map beyond its orchards and saffron fields.
“The Masjid has witnessed empires rise and fall,” said an elderly villager. “It deserves to stand for another 400 years — this time with care.”
