Kusumba Masjid: The Black Gem of Bengal

The Kusumba Masjid stands as a testament to Bengal's rich architectural heritage. Constructed in 1558-59 during the reign of Ghiyasuddin Bahadur Shah, it represents a unique fusion of architectural styles. The mosque is named after Kusumba village in Manda Upazila, Naogaon district, and is situated on the west bank of the Atrai River. Built by Sulaiman, a high-ranking official, the mosque's design reflects a departure from earlier Suri architecture of North India, grounding itself firmly in the Bengal style. The structure is primarily brick-built, with the exterior walls and interior surfaces up to the arches adorned with stone. Three types of stone—sandstone, granite, and marble—were used in its construction. The mosque features a rectangular plan with three bays and two aisles. The exterior boasts gently curved cornices and octagonal corner towers, typical of Bengal's architectural traditions. The eastern wall has three entrances, with two additional entrances on both the north and south sides. The interior qibla wall has intricately carved mihrabs, displaying floral motifs, vines and fruits. Once enclosed by a walled compound with a monumental gateway, the mosque also had a large water tank to the east, providing water for the local community. Although damaged in the 1897 earthquake, the mosque has been preserved by the Department of Archaeology of Bangladesh. Today, the Kusumba Masjid is not only a place of worship but also a major tourist attraction, symbolizing the region's cultural and historical identity. Its image is printed on the five taka note of Bangladesh.