While exploring the narrow historic lanes of Old Dhaka, I came across a true hidden architectural gem — the Kasaituli/ Kassabtuli Jam-e Mosque [ কসাইটুলি / কাস্বাবটুলি জামে মসজিদ ]. This beautiful mosque is widely known for its rare decorative style called “Chini Tukra” or “Chinitikri”, a unique ceramic mosaic technique that gives the building its dazzling appearance.
The mosque was established in 1907 (1338 Hijri) by a local businessman named Abdul Bari. Over time, the mosque became an important place of worship for the community. In 1979, the structure was renovated and expanded to three stories to accommodate more worshippers, but thankfully the original heritage section was preserved, allowing visitors to still admire its historic artistry.
The Beauty of “Chinitikri” Ceramic Art
The term “Chini Tukra” literally means “Chinese pieces.” It refers to the creative use of broken ceramic plates, chinaware, and glass fragments embedded into the walls to form colorful decorative mosaics.
What makes this mosque special is the way these ceramic fragments were arranged to create beautiful patterns:
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Rose garden motifs -
Grape clusters -
Decorative flower vases
Unlike many mosques that emphasize calligraphy, this mosque focuses more on nature-inspired artistic patterns.
The Highlight – The Mihrab
The Mihrab (prayer niche indicating the direction of Mecca) is the most visually stunning part of the mosque. It contains the densest and most colorful ceramic mosaic work, making it the centerpiece of the prayer hall.
Unique Architectural Features
Beyond the decorative ceramics, the mosque also has distinctive architectural elements.
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Three Domes: The roof features three main domes, with the central dome being the largest.
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Mini Dome Pillars: Interestingly, the pillars are topped with smaller dome-like structures about 5–12 feet high.
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Corner Towers (Buruj): Four symmetrical towers stand at the corners of the mosque.
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Lotus-shaped Finials: Decorative turrets across the roof are crowned with elegant lotus-shaped finials, adding a unique aesthetic touch.
Traditional Ablution Area (Wudu Khana)
Another interesting heritage feature of the mosque is its traditional “Hauz” style ablution area that still exists today.
In older South Asian mosques, instead of modern tap-based facilities, worshippers performed wudu (ablution) using water from a central reservoir or pool known as a “Hauz.” This design allowed multiple people to perform ablution at the same time while maintaining a calm and communal atmosphere.
Even today, the Kasaituli Jam-e Mosque preserves this traditional Hauz-type wudu system, offering visitors a glimpse into the historic mosque practices that were common in the region more than a century ago.
A Hidden Heritage Gem
Located in the Kassabtuli/Mahuttuli area of Old Dhaka, Google Maps Link : কশাইটুলি জামে মসজিদ , this mosque is a wonderful destination for architecture lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts. When sunlight hits the ceramic fragments, the walls shimmer with vibrant reflections — creating a magical atmosphere that feels truly timeless.
If you ever explore the historic neighborhoods of Old Dhaka, this mosque is definitely worth a visit! 
Have you seen any other buildings that use recycled ceramics or “Chinitikri” art? I’d love to hear about them — feel free to share your experiences and photos in the comments!
#LocalGuides #OldDhaka #Architecture #Chinitikri #Heritage #Bangladesh #CeramicArt #inspiringramadan26Mosque #masjid
Thank you for highlighting the beauty of Kasituli Jame Mosque, Old Dhaka has such rich architectural heritage. 
The Kasituli Jame Mosque is truly a hidden gem of Old Dhaka. The Chinitikri ceramic mosaic work is breathtaking — the rose, grape, and flower vase motifs are so intricate and colorful. I love that the mosque preserves both its heritage architecture and the traditional Hauz wudu system. Definitely a must-visit for architecture and history enthusiasts! 
