Mingora: The wooden work on a mosque that belongs to an era over 300 years ago has been restored to its original form through the efforts of the residents of the Sapal Bandai area of Swat. The historical mosque with the wooden works is known by the name of ‘Akhund Darveeza Baba mosque’, which is located about 12 kilometers from Mingora city. The financial aid was provided by the Dutch government and the local people used their skills to renovate this mosque.
A total amount of Rs 4.2 million was spent on the renovation of the mosque, informed Aziz Khan, who is in-charge of the mosques’ renovation and extension. An amount of Rs 0.82 million was also contributed by the local people as well with the additional Rs 3.35 million by the Dutch government. The extension and renovation works were initiated on 20th march last year and were completed by November, stated Mohammad Dawran, who is a retired teacher.
The mosque, according to Mohammad Darwan, was created 315 years ago. Cedar wood has been used in the decorations of the mosque, which has been a source of attraction for many visitors. The hand carvings are reflective of the skills and precision used by the people 315 years ago. According to Miraj Bacha, these works are impossible to attain in this era without the help of modern machinery.
The local people felt that it was their responsibility to restore the mosque to its original beauty and that such craftsmanship should be protected for the future generations to admire.
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IFTIKHAR MOHAMMAD CHAUDHRY AND RAHEEL shareef BOTH GREAT PAKISTANI