Wallajah Big Mosque

Wallajah Big Mosque, also known as the Big Mosque, is a historic Islamic place of worship located on Wallajah Road in Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Built in 1795 by Nawab Muhammad Ali Khan Wallajah of the Carnatic, it is considered the largest mosque in Chennai. Notable for its granite construction without steel or wood, Indo-Islamic architecture, twin minarets and large prayer hall, it remains an active religious centre and architectural landmark near Marina Beach.

Visitors can expect a large granite mosque complex with a spacious courtyard, twin minarets, arched entrances and a vast prayer hall. The exterior showcases Indo-Islamic architectural details and symmetrical design. The surroundings are urban, located on busy Wallajah Road near Chepauk and Marina Beach. Visitors can view the exterior and courtyard, observe architectural features, and experience an active place of worship. Interior access is primarily for worshippers, especially during prayer times.

Built in 1795 by Nawab Muhammad Ali Khan Wallajah, the Nawab of the Carnatic, with later additions. Constructed principally of granite without wood or steel, it reflects 18th-century Indo-Islamic architecture under the Wallajah dynasty and has served as the principal mosque of Chennai for over two centuries.

Principal mosque for the Muslim community in Chennai and an important centre for daily prayers, Friday congregations and Eid gatherings. It is valued as an architectural landmark and active religious site in the Triplicane neighbourhood.