Ashulia’s Jebunnesa Mosque feature in TIME Magazine’s list

Jebunnesa Mosque, an iconic architecture in Ashulia and has got a mention on Time magazine. UNB

Savar, March 22 - Every year, the globally influential magazine TIME announces a list of "The World’s Greatest Places," highlighting 100 remarkable destinations. For the first time, Jebunnesa Mosque, located in Dorgar Par, Jamgora, under Ashulia Police Station in Savar Upazila, has made it to this prestigious list. 

In its report published on March 13, TIME stated that while Bangladeshi architects have long been designing modern mosques, this pink-hued structure on the outskirts of Dhaka stands out as a striking artistic landmark. 

The report also mentions that the owner of one of the many textile factories in the area took the initiative to build Jebunnesa Mosque in honor of his late mother. The mosque serves as a place of prayer and a peaceful retreat for 6,500 garment workers. 

Located within IDS Group’s Fashion Forum Ltd. factory in Ashulia, the visually stunning mosque features a quadrilateral structure with a large dome at its center. The walls are adorned with numerous perforations, allowing natural light and air to flow freely, enhancing its beauty. In front of the mosque, a narrow glass-enclosed lake cools the air naturally before it enters the mosque, eliminating the need for air conditioning or electric fans. 

Saika Iqbal Meghna, co-founder and director of Studio Morphogenesis, stated, "The idea for this structure came from its dedication to a woman. I envisioned it as a soft shelter for garment workers." 

She added, "This place should belong to all garment workers. As an architect, this recognition is a major achievement." 

Local worshippers say that there is no other mosque in Bangladesh with such a unique design. They expressed gratitude to the factory authorities for constructing such a beautiful mosque for workers and residents. Even in hot weather, they can pray comfortably in the cool environment without needing fans. 

The ablution area (Wudu Khana) is adorned with turquoise-colored tiles, symbolizing purity. Women garment workers are also pleased with the well-maintained, serene environment of the mosque. 

The mosque’s Imam, Hafiz Mufti Md. Shafiqul Islam, remarked, "After a long day inside the factory, workers feel refreshed when they pray in this peaceful mosque. The owners have set a remarkable example by building such a beautiful mosque for their workers." - UNB