The Mosque also promotes educational activities like the "Vidyarambham" (introduction to the literacy world) which includes many of the non-Muslims and Muslims educating their children. However, women cannot enter the mosque because of various religious believes. But women can wait out of the Mosque and enjoy the other things such as the eat-streets around the mosque. The Managing body of the Mosque is elected every two years. Thereby they are the people who take care of the mosque with utmost responsibility.
The Mosque was built in A.D 629 in Kodungallur which is near Thrissur. You will be amazed to know that the Cheraman Mosque is the oldest Mosque of India and also ranks to be the second oldest Mosque in the entire world. It is believed that the mosque was built after seven years of relocation of Prophet Mohammed to Medina. The Mosque got its name from the then ruler of Kerala, Cheraman Perumal. The man behind the making of this magnificent mosque is Malik Bin Dar who was a true follower of Prophet Mohammed.
Even today there is a lamp which is lit since a thousand years and is a symbol of the belief of the people who still visit the mosque with all the religious sentiments. It is not just the Muslims but also people from various other religions who visit the mosque. This indeed emphasizes on the mutual concord which a society must have.
The Cheraman Mosque is a very peaceful place to be. The architecture of the mosque resembles to the style of the Arabs. The art and framework of the mosque is just commendable. If one wants to know how a place can fit into the phrase of "Simply the best", then one should definitely visit the Cheraman Mosque.
What differentiates the mosque from all the other mosques is the fact that the Cheraman Mosque unlike all the other mosques faces to the East instead of West. The brass lamps and the rosewood Jumah recital pulpit add that extra charm to the mosque. One of the major attractions of the mosque is the white marble block which is believed to be from the holy and pious place of Mecca.
The Cheraman Mosque is most crowded during the Ramadan period. The whole place comes to life during the festive season and if you are lucky enough to visit it during this period then you can get to experience the best of the place. Some of the major festivals celebrated here include: Ramadan, Bakrid, Veriancode Jaram Nercha, Kanjiramattom Kodikuthu etc. There entire festivals are celebrated with great pomp and show showcasing the rich cultural beauty as well as the religious significance that glorify peace and unity.