150-year-old 10-domed mosque stands as heritage symbol in Meherpur

At the heart of Anandabas village stands the nearly 150-year-old Anandabas 10-domed mosque – a structure locals describe as both a place of worship and a living testament to history, tradition and social harmony.

The mosque, known for its rare ten-domed design, has long been a silent witness to the region's religious and cultural evolution. According to local accounts, Islamic practices spread in the area under the influence of early preachers.

Village elders say the mosque was built under the inspiration of Sheikh Farid, though no written records confirm the founder's identity. Its history survives primarily through oral tradition.

Ibn Suayez Mamun, general secretary of the mosque management committee, said village elders – including Abul Master, Mofem Uddin Mandal and Jindar Ali – cared for the mosque for decades. "Now their successors are continuing that responsibility," he added.

Elderly resident Hashem Ali said he had heard from his forefathers that the mosque was built during the time of his father's grandfather. "The 10-domed mosque is architecturally unique. The lined dome design is rare in rural areas," he said.

The mosque's imam, Maulana Salah Uddin, highlighted its architectural pride. "One of our domes is larger than the dome of the Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat. This is a matter of pride for us," he said.
 
Built of reddish bricks, the mosque features a spacious prayer hall and an open courtyard. Though it has undergone renovations over time, locals say they have worked carefully to preserve its original heritage.

Jaydev Sharma, a follower of Sanatan Dharma who lives nearby, said the mosque predates his grandfather's time. "It was built many years ago. Later, in 1338 AD, the ten-domed section was preserved as heritage, and a two-story structure and boundary wall were constructed in front," he said.

Despite the construction of six new mosques in the village, devotees continue to gather at the historic site every Friday. Hasel Uddin Biswas said that people travel from distant areas to offer Jummah prayers there. "It is not just a place for prayer, but also for social interaction and community discussions," he said.

Elderly Abdul Karim described the mosque as a source of pride for the village. Muazzin Moen Uddin echoed the sentiment, saying visitors frequently come to see the structure.

Residents say religious education and Islamic practices in the area expanded around the 10-domed mosque. Several other mosques in nearby areas have since been built in a similar architectural style.

Maintained through local initiatives, the mosque continues to play a role in promoting social harmony, compassion and brotherhood. Community members believe that with archaeological recognition or government patronage, it could become one of the district's notable historical landmarks.

For the people of Anandabas, the 10-domed mosque remains more than a brick-and-mortar structure – it stands as a symbol of village identity, spiritual tranquillity, and enduring unity.