"The best features of the mosque are the 73 meters high minarets and its 16 pointed star concrete which is its main roof. There are many meanings to the design of the mosque. The main roof's design was inspired from the idea of an open umbrella while the minarets were like a folded umbrella."
This uniquely designed
mosque embodies a contemporary expression of traditional Islamic art,
calligraphy and ornamentation. Its most striking feature is the
multi-fold umbrella-like roof which symbolises the aspirations of an
independent nation. Standing prominently against the skyline is the
sleek and stylish 73m high minaret.
The central roof appears to be
first glance a partially unfolded umbrella.
The
building itself includes a hall, a mausoleum, a library, offices, an
open courtyard and a minaret. The Grand Hall is surrounded by deep
veranda's. They provide a praying area and can easily accommodate up to
5000 people.
The
mausoleum, situated at the rear of the mosque, stands in a circular
reflecting pool and is connected to the main building by a covered
foot-bridge. It is circular in shape and is covered by a pleated shell
concrete dome similar in shape to that of the Grand Hall but with only
seven folds, one of which covers a reserve for the national hero’s tomb.
