The Tsas Soma Mosque, located in the heart of Leh, Ladakh, is an important historical landmark. This mosque has roots dating back to the 17th century and has witnessed the vibrant history of trade and culture in the region. Here, we explore the mosque’s history, significance, and restoration.

Oldest Public Mosque of Leh

Leh’s oldest public mosque, the Tsas Soma Mosque, was built in the 17th century. Located in the heart of Leh, it served as a worship and learning center for Muslim traders traveling along the ancient Silk Route. Although it fell into disrepair by the 1950s, it was restored in 2007, preserving its historical features and cultural significance.

History of Leh’s Oldest Public Mosque

In the 1600s, Leh was a bustling trade center along the ancient Silk Route. The town attracted traders from different regions, including Central Asia, Kashmir, and Punjab. Many of these traders were Muslims, and they needed a place to pray. In response to their request, King Sengge Namgyal provided land for a mosque. This led to the establishment of the Tsas Soma Mosque, offering a place for worship and religious gatherings.

The Mosque Role as a Worship Center

The Tsas Soma Mosque was more than just a place for prayers. It also served as a Madrasah, where religious education took place. During its active years, the mosque was used by the local community for worship, including women who came to pray. The mosque continued to be functional until the 1950s, after which it fell into a state of disrepair.

The Tsas Soma Mosque Served as a Popular Stop for Traders

Leh was an important stop for traders traveling from Lhasa, Punjab, Kashmir, and other regions, including Iran and Europe. The Tsas Soma area became a key camping site for these travelers, with multiple camping grounds set up around the town. Caravans and their animals rested at various spots, including near the present-day police station and taxi stand. The mosque played a role in the community by allowing these traders to gather for prayers and even conduct barter trades.

Restoring a Piece of History

By the 1950s, the mosque was in poor condition and was largely abandoned as the main mosque in Leh was already established. However, the Tibet Heritage Fund (THF) and the Anjuman Moin ul-Islam Society worked together in 2007 to restore the Tsas Soma Mosque. The original features, such as the main door and wooden beams, were preserved to maintain its historical character.

Design and Architecture of the Tsas Soma Mosque

The Tsas Soma Mosque is a simple single-story building. It consists of one large room with six wooden pillars that have traditional Ladakhi-style carvings. The mosque originally had a wooden dome, which has since been moved to the Shah Hamdan Mosque at Shey. Notably, the mosque does not have a minaret, a feature typically found in many other mosques.

The Mosque’s Place in Ladakh’s Heritage

The mosque stands as a reminder of Ladakh’s diverse cultural and religious past. It reflects a time when Leh was a significant center for trade and cross-cultural interaction. The Tsas Soma Mosque is now part of the Central Asian Museum compound, attracting visitors who are interested in the history and culture of Ladakh.

Paper is a significant invention that transformed the way we write and communicate information. Its development has a rich history, primarily credited to one country: China. This revolutionary material allowed for easier documentation and sharing of ideas, making it essential for education and record-keeping. The invention of paper paved the way for literacy to flourish, enabling knowledge to spread across cultures and generations. Let’s delve deeper into this remarkable topic.

First Country to Invent the Paper

China is the first country to invent paper. Although Cai Lun, a Han dynasty official, is often credited with improving papermaking around 105 CE, archaeological evidence shows that paper-like materials were in use as early as 179–141 BCE. This early innovation laid the foundation for the widespread use of paper in writing and communication.

Early Evidence of Papermaking

Archaeological findings indicate that the process of making paper predates Cai Lun. The oldest known paper fragment was discovered in Fangmatan, Gansu province, and dates back to between 179 and 141 BCE. Additional fragments found at Dunhuang and Yumen pass date to 65 BCE and 8 BCE, respectively. These findings suggest that paper was already in use before Cai Lun’s time.

Who was credited with the Invention of Paper in China?

Cai Lun, a Chinese official during the Han dynasty (202 BCE – 220 CE), is often credited with inventing paper around 105 CE. He created a new type of paper using materials like mulberry bark, rags, and fishing nets. This method made paper production cheaper and more efficient. Although Cai Lun improved the papermaking process, it seems that paper existed in some form long before his innovations.

Techniques Used in Papermaking

Before the invention of paper, ancient Chinese documents were written on heavy materials like bone or bamboo, making them difficult to use. During the Shang and Zhou dynasties, people began using lighter materials, but these were often too expensive. Cai Lun’s contribution involved using plant fibers and rags, inspired by the way wasps and bees build their nests.

The production process involved soaking and pounding rags to create a fibrous mass. This method allowed for the development of different types of paper. By the Tang dynasty (618–907 CE), new materials like bamboo became popular due to increased demand for paper.

Uses of Paper in Ancient China

Initially, paper was used for various purposes, including padding delicate objects like bronze mirrors. It also served as a writing medium by the 3rd century CE. Toilet paper, for example, was used in China as early as the late 6th century. The government even produced the first known paper money during the Song dynasty (960–1279 CE).

The Impact of Paper on Society

The introduction of paper significantly changed written culture in China. It allowed books to be produced and distributed more easily. Scholars began to collect more texts, and libraries expanded significantly. By the Tang dynasty, China was a leader in book production, surpassing other regions in the number of books available.

However, by the 9th century, the development of paper in the Middle East began to catch up with China. Libraries in cities like Cairo and Baghdad held larger collections than those in China. By the 15th century, the invention of the printing press in Europe further accelerated book production, eventually leading to larger collections than those in China.

The Holkar Dynasty significantly influenced Indian history, particularly within the Maratha Empire. It emerged as a powerful force in the 18th century, shaping regional politics and military campaigns. Understanding the founder and early beginnings of this dynasty offers insights into its rise to prominence and its lasting impact on Indian history.

Who was the Founder of the Holkar Dynasty?

Malhar Rao Holkar was the founder of the Holkar Dynasty in India. Born on March 16, 1693, he served under the Maratha Empire. He was given the estate of Indore to govern by the Peshwas. Malhar Rao played a significant role in expanding Maratha rule in northern India. He became a powerful leader and established a dynasty that ruled over Malwa for many years. He is remembered for his contributions to the Maratha Empire.

Key Details Related to the Founder of Holkar Dynasty

• Name: Malhar Rao Holkar
• Date of birth: 16^th March 1693
• Place of birth: Jejuri, Pune
• Known as: Founder of Holkar Dynasty
• Death: 20^th May 1766
• Place of death: Alampur, Madhya Pradesh

Rise to Power and Service Under the Peshwas

Malhar Rao initially served in the forces of Kadam Bande in Khandesh. In 1715, he began his military journey, and by 1719, he participated in an expedition to Delhi led by Balaji Vishwanath. In 1721, he switched allegiance to the Peshwa, Bajirao I, rising quickly through the ranks due to his dedication and military prowess. His successful military campaigns, including his role in the Battle of Palkhed (1728), helped solidify his reputation. By 1732, he was granted a large portion of western Malwa, giving him control over thousands of cavalry troops.

Key Military Campaigns and Achievements

Malhar Rao was actively involved in major battles and campaigns that shaped the Maratha Empire. He fought against the Nizam in the Battle of Balapur (1720), participated in the Maratha expedition to Delhi (1737), and played a role in the Maratha victory over the Portuguese at Vasai (1739). His influence grew stronger after 1748, when he gained a firm hold in the Malwa region. He was granted several territories for his service, including Rampura, Bhanpura, and Tonk.

Role of Malhar Rao in the Mughal and Durrari Wars

Holkar was a key figure in the Maratha campaigns against the Mughal Empire and the Durrani Empire. He participated in significant battles, such as the Battle of Jalesar and the Battle of Delhi (1737). In 1754, during the siege of Kumher Fort, his only son Khanderao was killed, deeply affecting him. Holkar was also involved in the conquest of Lahore and other regions, demonstrating his military expertise. Despite facing setbacks, including a defeat by the Durrani cavalry at the Second Battle of Sikandarabad (1760), he continued to be a formidable force.

The Third Battle of Panipat and Later Years

Malhar Rao Holkar played an advisory role in the Third Battle of Panipat (1761). He suggested using traditional Maratha guerrilla tactics, but his advice was not followed. Even though the Marathas faced a crushing defeat, Holkar managed to save many civilians and families of Maratha leaders. In the years that followed, he worked towards reviving the Maratha power, supporting figures like Mahadji Scindia and his daughter-in-law Ahilyabai Holkar, who later became the ruler of Indore.

Death and Legacy of Malhar Rao, the Founder of the Holkar Dynasty

Malhar Rao Holkar passed away on 20 May 1766 at Alampur, Madhya Pradesh. After his death, his daughter-in-law, Ahilyabai Holkar, took over the administration of Indore, following the brief reign of his grandson, Male Rao Holkar, who died in 1767. Malhar Rao is remembered as one of the key figures who contributed to the spread of Maratha power across India. His samadhi, or memorial, was built by Ahilyabai at the site of his cremation in Alampur.