Historic Gorinda Mosque in Bangladesh — A Forgotten Shia Heritage Site on the Brink of Collapse

Historic Gorinda Mosque in Bangladesh — A Forgotten Shia Heritage Site on the Brink of Collapse
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The Gorinda Jame Mosque in Bangladesh, an ancient monument of Islamic architecture with roots in Shia history, is facing the threat of destruction due to years of neglect and lack of restoration.

According to AhlulBayt News Agency (ABNA), the mosque is located in the Patuakhali district, about 7.5 kilometers northeast of Galachipa, surrounded by dense forest that has long concealed its historical significance. The main square-shaped structure covers 33.5 square meters and stands about five meters high. Adjacent to it lies a smaller room, measuring 4.9 by 3.4 meters, once used for religious gatherings and community events.

Local historians say that during the Nawab era, Shia Muslims held significant influence in the region, building several mosques dedicated to Imam Ali (peace be upon him) and Lady Fatimah (peace be upon her). Over time, these sites were overtaken by forests until the mid-19th century, when a local cleric cleared the area and revived Friday prayers.

Elder resident Mohammad Rustam Ali Hawaldar notes that the Gorinda Mosque predates the devastating storm of 1584–1585 CE, which killed thousands but left the mosque standing.

Local officials, including Mahmudul Hasan, a member of the Galachipa Union Council, have called for urgent restoration measures, warning that the mosque’s collapse would mean the loss of a vital link to Bangladesh’s Shia and Islamic architectural heritage.