The Fazl Mosque in Wandsworth, also known as London Mosque, is observing its centennial this year, exactly a century after opening as London’s first mosque. The building, which features a white exterior, green dome, and surrounding gardens with English roses, was constructed largely through financial contributions from Ahmadi Muslims from Qadian in India, including women who sold personal jewelry to support the project despite knowing they would likely never visit the completed structure.
Throughout its history, the mosque has served multiple functions beyond religious worship. During the second world war, it provided shelter during air raids. In recent years, it has been used as a center for blood donations and Covid-19 vaccinations. The building was designated as listed status by Historic England in 2018 and remains architecturally similar to its original design from a century ago.
Community leaders describe the mosque as well-integrated into its local area. According to Mahmood Rafiq of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, the institution prioritizes engagement with neighbors through activities such as distributing sweets to local children during Eid, extending Christmas greetings, environmental cleanup efforts, and support for other faith communities facing attacks. Putney Labour MP Fleur Anderson noted the mosque’s role in local community events. The organization’s stated message is “love for all, hatred for none.”
Historically, the mosque hosted notable figures and influenced significant geopolitical developments. In the 1930s, imam Abdur Rahim Dard reportedly played a key role in events leading to Pakistan’s establishment. Muhammad Ali Jinnah, an Indian politician who later became Pakistan’s first governor general, made a keynote speech at the mosque that marked a turning point in Indian independence movements, leading to partition in August 1947.
Centenary celebrations include distributing 10,000 free meals to homeless people. Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the current leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, stated that the mosque’s legacy reflects principles of serving neighbors, demonstrating loyalty to the UK, and pursuing peace across faith communities. Long-time community member Munir Dean expressed optimism about the institution’s future, stating the community’s foundational message remains timeless and relevant for generations to come.
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