The Fazl Mosque in Wandsworth, London, marked its centenary this year, reflecting on a century of history since its opening as London’s first mosque. The mosque, home to members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, has served multiple purposes throughout its existence, functioning as an air raid shelter during World War II and more recently as a venue for blood donations and COVID-19 vaccinations.
Community leaders emphasize the mosque’s commitment to interfaith engagement and local integration. According to Mahmood Rafiq of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community UK, the institution distributes sweets to local children during Eid, extends Christmas greetings to neighbors, participates in environmental cleanup efforts, and expresses solidarity with other faith communities experiencing discrimination. The mosque’s stated ethos centers on the message of “love for all, hatred for none.” While leaders report minimal experiences with Islamophobia at the site, they note an increase in low-level harassment incidents.
The building holds significant historical importance beyond its religious function. It was granted listed status by Historic England in 2018 and retains much of its original architectural character, including its distinctive green dome, white exterior, and surrounding English rose gardens. Historical records indicate that in the 1930s, the mosque’s imam played a role in discussions with Muhammad Ali Jinnah, an Indian politician who later became governor general of Pakistan following the partition of British India in August 1947.
The mosque’s founding was financed largely by Ahmadi Muslims from Qadian in India, many of them women who sold personal jewelry to support the construction despite knowing they would likely never visit the completed building. To commemorate the centenary, mosque leaders announced plans to provide 10,000 free meals to homeless individuals. Current community members view the anniversary as marking “a century of connection” and express confidence in the institution’s continued relevance for future generations.
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