Masjid Qazian is one of the smallest mosques in Bhera. It is located inside Ganjwala Darwaza ( Lahori Gate – 1869 ), in Kacheri bazaar, near Mohalla Malakanwala and Imam Kot. It is believed to be of Shah Jahan’s period, who reigned from 1638 to 1658. Situated at the entrance of mohalla Qazianwala, which is a close-ended mohalla, comprising six to eight houses.
The mosque has three bays. The central one is bigger than the two on either side. The central bay is surmounted with a hemispherical dome while the side bays have a slightly curvilinear roof. A verandah has been added in front of the prayer chamber.
There are two graves in the courtyard in the northeastern corner and a Khui. The graves are said to be older than the mosque itself. Reference: History, Archaeology and Architecture of Bhera – Reference article in the book, ” Historic Town of Punjab: Ancient and Medieval Period” by Dr Abdul Rehman, published by Feroz Sons ( Ptv) Ltd, Lahore 199 The mosque has a long history, has seen many ups and downs. Qazianwala, through a tiny mohalla of Bhera, has produced renowned people since the times of the Mughals. Efforts will be made to write about them with authentic references.
A comment by someone has made me inquisitive to know more about Mohalla Qazian and its mosque. A comment mentioned verbatim: ” Mohalla Qazian is my ancestor’s mohalla. Syed Nizam ud Din was Qazi ul Qaza ( Chief Justice ). He was my great-grandfather’s, great father during the Mughal period. As told by elders of the family, he was appointed as Qazi- – ul – Qaza of Pargana Bhera. Later, during the Mughal days, some land was allotted to Qazi Sahib. He developed it and named it Chak Qazi near Bhera.
Zahid Mumtaz
