The long-awaited approval was granted by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation on March 12, bringing joy to the local Muslim community
Mohammad bin Ismail | Clarion India
NEW DELHI — After years of struggle, perseverance, and countless legal hurdles, the Seawood Mosque in the posh locality of Nerul (West) in Mumbai, has finally received its No Objection Certificate (NOC), allowing prayers to be held in the grand structure. The long-awaited approval was granted by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation on March 12, bringing joy to the local Muslim community, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
On March 14, the mosque hosted its first-ever Friday prayers, witnessing such an overwhelming turnout that two congregational prayers had to be organised. The mosque, with a capacity of approximately 2,500 worshippers, is now fully operational, marking a significant moment for the local Muslim community.
The journey to establishing the Seawood Mosque has been anything but easy. Since its completion in 2020, legal and bureaucratic obstacles delayed its opening. According to Hashim Dhamskar, Secretary of the Mosque Trust, numerous individuals and groups worked tirelessly to make the mosque project a reality, despite facing resistance from certain local authorities and political figures.
“Local authorities, politicians, and even government officials created obstacles at various stages. But by the grace of Allah, we persevered and secured the final NOC,” Dhamskar stated.
He further revealed that the mosque required 13 different approvals from various departments before the final clearance was granted. “Initially, a few worshippers offered Asr prayers as a symbolic beginning, and since then, regular prayers have started here,” he added.
The foundation for the Seawood Mosque was laid long ago, as part of a broader vision to serve the religious needs of Muslims in the region. Former RBI officer Mohammad Ali Patankar played a crucial role in initiating this project through the Islamic Welfare Association, established in 1998.
In 2002, the first official request for the mosque’s construction was submitted to the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO). However, multiple delays, including legal battles and zoning issues, significantly hampered the process. “Since the tenure of RR Patil as Home Minister, various pretexts were used to halt construction, from environmental restrictions to municipal clearance hurdles,” Dhamskar explained.
The persistent challenges only strengthened the resolve of the mosque’s advocates. Individuals such as Masroor Khan (President), Muhammad AH (Vice President), Khan Muhammad Bastiwala, Ibrahim Bhai Jan, Arif Naseem Khan, Nawab Malik, and Abu Asim Azmi played instrumental roles in the project. Support also came from legal experts and community leaders, ensuring the legal fight reached the highest levels, including the Supreme Court.
The mosque committee members faced numerous threats and demands for large sums of money to deter them from pursuing the legal battle. Despite this, they remained steadfast, navigating various government departments and courts without succumbing to pressure.
“We were threatened, and efforts were made to prevent us from taking the case to the Supreme Court,” said Dhamskar. “Yet, with the unwavering support of dedicated community members and legal experts, we continued our fight until we achieved this success.”
One of the biggest hurdles came from the municipal corporation, which reportedly altered the mosque’s architectural blueprint 40 times. However, architect Fazal Sarang made all required modifications without charging a fee, further demonstrating the community’s commitment to the project.
Financial support also played a crucial role. Philanthropist Irfan Alana contributed significantly in the initial stages by helping purchase the mosque’s site. Over the years, additional financial support came from dedicated individuals and organisations.
The Seawood Mosque now stands as a symbol of resilience, built on a sprawling 1,047-square-meter plot. The mosque boasts modern facilities, including two basements dedicated to underground parking with a car lift, three upper floors, and a fully air-conditioned prayer area.
Despite past struggles, the mosque is now a vital religious and community centre, drawing thousands of worshippers daily. The holy month of Ramadan has seen the mosque fully occupied even during the early morning Fajr prayers.
Located close to the railway station and Palm Beach Road, the mosque offers easy access to worshippers. The completion of this long-delayed project is a testament to the faith, determination, and unity of the local Muslim community.
