Sidi Saiyyed Mosque

Sidi Saiyyed Mosque is a historic mosque located in the old walled city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, near Lal Darwaza. Built in 1572-73, it is renowned for its exquisite Indo-Islamic architecture and intricate stone latticework (jali). Its most famous feature is the Tree of Life jali on the western wall, which has become an iconic symbol of Ahmedabad and is widely recognized for its delicate carving in yellow sandstone.

Visitors can expect a small, elegant yellow sandstone mosque with arched interiors and ten intricately carved stone lattice windows. The main attraction is the finely carved jali screens, especially the Tree of Life design with interwoven branches and palm motifs that filters light into the prayer hall. The mosque is located on a busy road junction in the old city, surrounded by urban activity, and the interior is compact and tranquil, suitable for quiet observation, photography of the jalis from outside, and appreciation of Indo-Islamic craftsmanship.

Built in 1572-73 by Sidi Saiyyed, an Abyssinian (Sidi) saint and retainer of Bilal Jhajar Khan, in the final year of the Gujarat Sultanate under Sultan Muzaffar Shah III before the Mughal conquest of Gujarat. The mosque is a notable example of Indo-Islamic architecture of the late Sultanate period and is protected as part of the heritage of the Historic City of Ahmedabad.

The mosque is culturally significant for its masterful stone jali art, particularly the Tree of Life jali which has become the unofficial symbol of Ahmedabad and the official logo of the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. It represents the synthesis of Indo-Islamic craftsmanship and is a key monument within the UNESCO World Heritage City of Ahmedabad, attracting visitors for its artistic and architectural value.