Save Jamia Masjid Lakhi Dar, Shikarpur
Jamia Masjid Lakhi Dar is one of the few surviving ancient buildings in Shikarpur and a masterpiece of historical architecture. Located in the city’s famous Lakhi Dar area, it is popularly known by that very name.
This noble mosque stands as an unparalleled testament to the architectural, artistic, and cultural heritage of Sindh, and of Shikarpur in particular. Today, though, it awaits the attention needed to ensure its very survival.
The mosque has two entrances. The main one faces east, towards the Clock Tower (Ghanta Ghar), while the second lies on the north side. Passing through the eastern door leads into a spacious courtyard, followed by a veranda with a wooden ceiling. From this veranda, three doorways open into the mosque’s inner sanctum.
In earlier times, the mosque’s interior was adorned with beautiful fresco work. Over the years, however, haphazard and amateur renovation and repainting have nearly erased this original ornamentation. Fortunately, traces of the exquisite artwork survive on the ceiling of the central dome, rendered in soft, pastel tones.
The mosque comprises three domes, the central one larger than the other two. Handsome turrets rise from its corners, while two smaller minarets stand on the front parapet wall facing the central dome — a further showcase of its architectural mastery.
Its most distinctive feature is the ornamental lantern crowning the central dome, a fine example of Sindh’s Islamic architectural artistry. It was arguably the first mosque in Shikarpur to feature such a decorative lantern atop its dome.
But alas — today, this history is breathing its last. To look upon Jamia Masjid Lakhi Dar now is to feel the eyes fill with tears and the heart sink with sorrow. Centuries of history, this rare architectural specimen, its exquisite frescoes, the beauty of its domes, and its ornamental lantern are all slowly decaying under the weight of time, weathering, and sheer neglect. If this monument is not preserved on scientific principles today, future generations may know it only through the pages of history books.
We strongly appeal to the Culture, Tourism, Antiquities & Archives Department of the Government of Sindh, archaeology experts, the district administration of Shikarpur, elected representatives, and all responsible authorities to take these measures without fail. First, immediately conduct a technical survey of Jamia Masjid Lakhi Dar.
Second, carry out scientific restoration that preserves its original architectural beauty. Third, conserve the remaining fresco work and intricate motifs. Four, take emergency measures to protect the ornamental lantern, domes, and minarets. And last but not least, manage the mosque more effectively as a protected cultural heritage site of Sindh.
Jamia Masjid Lakhi Dar is not merely a structure of brick, mortar, and lime — it is a living document of Shikarpur’s civilization, history, religious legacy, and the artistic grandeur of Sindh. If we fail to save it today, history will never forgive us.