At the heart of Chuadanga district town stands a nearly 250-year-old three-domed mosque, a timeless symbol of faith, philanthropy and the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Locally known as the Boro Mosque or Minar Mosque, the historic structure was founded in 1208 Hijri (around 1786 AD) by Kusum Bibi, a devout woman who donated 73 decimals of land and personally financed its construction.

Widely regarded as the first mosque in the district town, locals say it was from here that the first Azan echoed across the area, marking the beginning of organised religious life in the region.

Over the centuries, the mosque has served not only as a place of worship but also as a centre for Islamic education and community activities, maintaining its importance through the British and Pakistan periods and into independent Bangladesh.

A legacy rooted in faith and generosity

According to local accounts, Kusum Bibi led a simple life and was deeply committed to the welfare of people. Folklore suggests she discovered some earthen pots filled with gold coins while building her house.

Rather than using the wealth for personal purposes, she sought advice from community elders and ultimately chose to build a mosque – believing it would serve as a lasting act of charity.

The mosque was constructed using traditional materials, including a mixture of lime, brick dust and egg yolk – a testimony to the architectural style of that time.

From modest beginnings to major congregation

Initially, the mosque could accommodate barely 70 worshippers across three lines. With a growing population and increased religious activities, it has gradually expanded over time.

A major renovation was carried out in 2014, preserving the main structure while enhancing facilities, expanding prayer space and improving its aesthetic appeal.

Currently, the mosque can host around 700 worshippers at a time and remains a bustling centre for daily prayers, Friday congregation and religious programmes.

Worshippers from Railpara, Mosjidpara, Academy Mor, Joardar Para and nearby areas regularly gather there, with large crowds attending Jummah prayers on Friday.

Need for preservation

Despite modernisation, parts of the mosque – particularly the Minar – require renovation, locals said, noting that a portion of the third-floor balcony has been damaged.

Mosque committee President Mohammad Ibrul Hasan Joardar said Kusum Bibi’s contribution continues to be remembered with deep respect, adding that her donation laid the foundation for an intuition that continues to serve generations.

Secretary Mohammad Jamir Hasan Joardar said further development work, including modernisation of ablution facilities and boundary walls, is planned with support from the community.

Former secretary Mohammad Ripon Mondal described the mosque as more than a religious structure, calling it a witness to a long social and historical journey shaped by collective efforts and donations.

A living memory for generations

Khalilur Rahman, a local senior citizen, said the mosque is tied to childhood memories. “We used to play here as children,” he said, recalling how the once simple structure has evolved into a modern yet historically rich landmark.

Muezzin Mohammad Shahabuddin, who has been serving since 2012, said the mosque continues to offer spiritual peace and religious education, thanks to the vision and generosity of its founder.

Blending traditional Mughal-style architecture with modern development, the Kusum Bibi Mosque remains a proud symbol of Chuadanga’s heritage – preserving history while continuing to serve as a vibrant centre of faith for future generations.