Jhulta Minara Sidi Bashir Mosque, Ahmedabad Travel Guide

The Jhulta Minara, also known as the Sidi Bashir Mosque or Shaking Minarets, is an architectural enigma located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Constructed in 1452, or possibly later during the reign of Mahmud Begada, the mosque is famed for its unique minarets that vibrate when one is shaken. This phenomenon, observed in the 19th century, has baffled engineers for centuries. Two conflicting stories surround the mosque's origin; one attributes it to Sidi Bashir, a slave of Sultan Ahmed Shah, while the other suggests Malik Sarang, a noble in Mahmud Begada's court, as the builder. The mosque initially served as a Sufi place of worship. However, much of the structure was destroyed in 1753 during a war between the Marathas and the Mughal governor of Gujarat, leaving only the central gateway and the two minarets standing.The three-story minarets, standing at 34 meters, showcase a blend of Indo-Islamic architectural styles. Each minaret features intricately carved balconies and stairways, exhibiting the craftsmanship of the era. The mechanism behind the shaking effect remains a mystery, though theories suggest it involves the layered construction and distribution of forces within the structure. The delicate stonework around the base of the minarets is particularly noteworthy.Located near Ahmedabad Junction railway station and Sarangpur Darwaja, the Jhulta Minara continues to attract tourists and architecture enthusiasts. Despite the damage over time, the minarets stand as a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of medieval India.