
Confluence : Malabar Collective

Project Background
Confluence North Malabar Collective is a multidisciplinary research and documentation initiative dedicated to exploring the architectural, cultural, and spiritual heritage of North Malabar, Kerala.
We focus on the region’s distinctive built environment : from timber-masonry mosques and civic and sacred spaces shaped by centuries of cultural exchange.
North Malabar lies at a historic crossroads where Arab maritime trade, Dravidian craft, Persian-Gulf connections, colonial influences, and indigenous building traditions have converged over time.
Our work centers on preserving and interpreting this living legacy of craftsmanship, faith, and community, through a combination of fieldwork, photogrammetry, archival research, and collaborative storytelling.

South Canara
Mysore
Arabian Sea
Calicut
Cochin

Mishkal Palli
Kuttichara
Hadara Palli
Jamath Palli
Mucchundi Palli
Arabian Sea
Old town of Calicut
Big Bazaar Road
Research Team
Our dedicated research team is committed to uncovering the intricate details of Malabar's mosque heritage through extensive studies and analysis.

Naeera Ali
Architect
Naeera Ali is an architect with ancestral ties to Kuttichira, Kozhikode, Kerala. She integrates her heritage into her work. A Master’s degree holder from the Rhode Island School of Design, Naeera is the founder of the Confluence North Malabar Collective, advocating for the preservation of timber-masonry mosques and the vernacular heritage of North Malabar. Her approach unites design, craftsmanship, and conservation to inspire sustainable architectural practices.
Darshan Kukadia
Nova Scan
With over 7+ years of experience in photogrammetry, 3D scanning, CAD, and architectural visualization, Darshan specializes in creating digital twins, virtual environments, and immersive experiences. His work spans across fields like archaeology, heritage preservation, architectural documentation.
Ijaz Mohammed
Illustrator
Ijaz, a visual designer and illustrator based in Kochi, Kerala, has made significant contributions to the Mishkal Palli project. With a background in fine arts, he has created illustrations for film title animations, book covers, editorial illustrations, and comics. His work has helped bring the mosque’s architectural story to life in a captivating way.
Mishkal Mosque Committee
Collaborators
Mishkal Mosque Committee is the traditional managing body and community trust responsible for the care, maintenance, and stewardship of Mishkal Palli : one of India’s oldest surviving mosques, located in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Formed by local leaders and custodians of the mosque’s heritage, the committee oversees both the religious functions and conservation of the mosque’s unique architectural legacy
Abdullah Omer
Collaborators
Abdullah is a photogrammetry specialist with over four years of experience converting image datasets into precise, optimized 3D models. He works across architecture, heritage preservation, drone mapping, and interactive media :delivering scalable, textured, and ready-to-use assets with speed and precision.
INTACH Calicut Regional Chapter
Collaborators
INTACH – Calicut Regional Chapter supported the creation of the signage board for Mishkal Palli as part of its mission to promote heritage awareness and documentation in North Kerala. Mohan, a long-time collaborator, played an essential role in proof-reading and refining the historical and architectural content, helping ensure clarity, accuracy, and accessibility for public audiences.
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Past collaborator : Xequalto



Conservation
By focusing on conservation efforts, we strive to protect and maintain the physical structures and cultural integrity of the mosques, ensuring their legacy for future generations.
Education
Through educational initiatives, we aim to raise awareness about the unique heritage of Malabar's mosques, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for their cultural and historical value.
Awareness
Building awareness is key to our mission, as we seek to engage the public in the rich history and architectural splendor of Malabar's mosques.


