Laṭ Masjid, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh India

Laṭ Masjid. The Laṭ Masjid or 'Pillar Mosque', to the south of the town like the tomb of Shaykh Changal, was built as the Jami' Mosque by Dilawar Khan in 1405. It derives its name from a pillar (Laṭ) made of iron which is supposed to have been set up in the 11th century. The pillar, which was nearly 13.2 m high according to the most recent assessment, is fallen and broken; the three surviving parts are displayed on a small platform outside the mosque. It carries a later inscription recording a visit of the Mughal emperor Akbar in 1598 while on campaign towards the Deccan. The pillar's original stone footing is also displayed nearby.