The Kalar Ma’r Masjid, a historical landmark believed to be around 500 years old, is located in Uttar Dhurung Union, Kutubdia, Cox’s Bazar. Thought to have been built during the Mughal era, the masjid is regarded as one of the oldest religious structures in the region.
Although there are no written records confirming the masjid’s founder, construction date, or the origin of its name, local folklore suggests that a noblewoman in the village once made a heartfelt request to her husband before her passing—to build a mosque in her memory. Honoring her wish, her husband constructed a mosque with a thatched roof, naming it after their only son, Kalar. It eventually became known as Kalar Mar Mosque.
Over the centuries, the masjid has undergone several renovations. In 1876, a prominent local landlord, Sheikh Muhammad Monu Sikdar, rebuilt the mosque with semi-pucca (semi-brick) structures. Later, in 1916, his three sons—Sheikh Azgar Ali Sikdar, Sheikh Abdur Rahman Sikdar, and Sheikh Abduch Samad Sikdar—collectively established a waqf trust to oversee the masjid and other community welfare initiatives.
The masjid holds daily prayers attended by hundreds of worshippers. On Fridays, over 1,200 to 1,500 people from distant areas come together for the Jumu’ah prayer. The mosque also provides separate prayer arrangements for women, attracting many female worshippers daily.
Many locals believe the mosque to be associated with mystical events and divine blessings, making it a site of spiritual significance. As a result, it draws a steady stream of visitors from Kutubdia and neighboring upazilas, as devout men and women come seeking prayer and blessings.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Collected
