The mosque was built to accommodate 2,000 Quran readers at once.
Nawab Murshid Quli Khan requested his remains be buried under the stairs so that worshippers' feet would constantly tread upon his grave.
The mosque was once a significant center for Islamic learning in 18th-century Bengal.
Only two of the original four massive corner minarets remain standing after the 1897 earthquake.
The interior of the mosque was designed with an open-air courtyard concept, influenced by contemporary Middle Eastern mosque layouts.
Katra Masjid is a former mosque and the tomb of Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, the first Nawab of Bengal, located in Murshidabad. Built between 1723 and 1724, the structure functions as both a religious site and a funerary monument. The architectural design features a large courtyard surrounded by a two-story row of cells that once served as a residence for Quran reciters and students. The mosque stands on a raised platform, reached by a wide flight of stairs leading to the main entrance. Two prominent corner towers remain from the original four, each featuring spiral staircases leading to the top. The structure was constructed using brick and is noted for its austere, functional design rather than elaborate ornamentation. It was designed by the architect Murad Farash Khan. The grave of Murshid Quli Khan is situated under the entrance staircase, a placement he requested to be trampled by the feet of visitors as an act of penance.
The wide, symmetrical front staircase looking up toward the mosque platform provides the best angle for capturing the remaining minarets.
Walk the perimeter of the upper level to see the architectural symmetry of the surviving student cells.
Visit the staircase entrance carefully to identify the burial spot of the Nawab.
The site is largely an open-air ruin; bring sun protection as there is minimal shade in the central courtyard.
Do not attempt to climb the damaged minarets, as they are structurally unstable and cordoned off for safety.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as it is a burial site; dress modestly covering shoulders and knees; remove footwear before entering any enclosed prayer areas.
