Confluence : Malabar Collective
Mimbar
The Mimbar has 5 steps which leads to the speaker’s platform and has a canopy above. The canopy has coffered square panels which are surrounded by a frame of floral relief. The Mimbar has many Arabic inscriptions which have the recordings of the renovation and redecoration. The inscriptions are of Naksh script. The canopy is supported by 6 turned columns which have small brackets. Even the balusters leading to the speaker’s compartment is turned and made of wood. The frame around the coffered ceiling and the brackets has deeply carved rosettes in a foliated backdrop (Figure 3.2 10) this inlay work is rare and is one of a kind. Similar type of inlay work is found in the Masjid of Abyaneh
Floor Plans
Architectural Features
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Timber Superstructure: Massive teak beams and posts, intricate wooden joinery, and a tiered, tiled roof — modeled after temple and vernacular Kerala architecture.
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Five-Tiered Roof (originally four stories; now rebuilt after 1510 attack)
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Laterite and Lime Masonry base with timber upper structure
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Arched Facades with carved panels and geometric detailing
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No minarets — following Malabar’s distinctive mosque traditions
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Mihrab and Minbar integrated with timber carving and stone detailing
The columns and the balusters that support the canopy are made of turned wood. The frame of the coffered canopy and the panels consists of inlay work, which could be similar to those found in Yemen.
The mimbar bears several inscriptions – some record the dates of its renovations and redecorations. There is a reference to the fire (written in Naksh script) caused by the Portuguese in 1510.
The Mihrab has a wide border consisting of pilasters that are adorned with mouldings, which are simple foliations .This feature is very unusual in Middle Eastern and Hindu architecture.
Mishkal Palli/Mosque
The Mishkal Palli mosque, one of the oldest monuments of the town, was constructed by Nakhuda Mithqal. He was a famous ship-owner with vast wealth and many ships for his Trade with India, China and the Arabian Peninsula. The mosque, built between 1300 and 1350 C.E., stands as a tribute to the rich history of Calicut and the cultural and religious exchanges that shaped the town.
Apart from its unique architectural features, the Mishkal Palli was among India's most prominent and few purpose-built mosques. It served as a hub for the town's trade and cultural exchanges, attracting merchants and scholars from across the region and contributing to its prosperity and intellectual growth.
Recent Documentation
Interiors
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