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Malik Ibn Dinar
Mosque
The Juma Masjid of Kasargod, Malik Ibn Dinar Mosque is located in the heart
of the town at Thalangara, 2kms away. Built in typical Kerala style of architecture,
it is one of the most attractive and well-maintained mosques in the district
which is believed to have been founded by Malik Ibn Dinar. Dinar was a missionary
from Arabia who is credited with propagating Islam to the shores of Malabar.
Of the 10 mosques built in Kasargod by Dinar and his followers, only this mosque
survives today. The original mosque was a small structure with a thatched roof
and later his followers constructed it as an elaborate structure. The mortal
remains of Malik Dinar can be seen inside the mosque and some of the descendents
of the prophet are also buried here.
The festival of Urs (Uroos), commemorating the death anniversary of Ibn Dinar
is held here, once every three years with great pomp and gaiety. On this occasion,
thousands of devotees throng the premise of the mosque to pay homage to their
revered saint. Religious speeches are held and food and clothes are distributed
among the pilgrims.
Nellikkunnu Mosque
Also known as Nellikkunnu Muhayuddin Juma Masjid, Nellikkunnu Mosque renowned
for its Uroos in the name of Thangal Uppappa is about 2kms away from the Kasargod
town. Mohammed Haneef Valiyullahi Thangal Uppappa, an Auliya (sahib) from the
same place is said to possess lot of supernatural powers and during the urs
pilgrims gather at his memorial tomb to pay their respect. Celebrated once in
two years, usually in the month of January/February, this nercha celebration
lasts for seven to eleven days. Religious speeches by scholars are conducted
as a part of the festival.
Cheruvathur Kota
Palli
Cheruvathur Kota Palli is a little Muslim shrine located within the ruined
Dutch fort in the veeramala hills at Cheruvathur, 10kms from Nileshwaram. It
was built in memory of an Arab sage belonged to the time of Malik Ibn Dinar.
His masonry tomb is housed inside the kotapalli and devotees flock here with
the belief that one's wishes will be fulfilled by praying here.
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