Fazl Mosque celebrates 100 years as London’s first purpose-built mosque

The Fazl Mosque in Southfields, London’s first purpose-built mosque, is celebrating its centenary. Opened on October 3, 1926, the building was funded by donations from the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in what was then British India.

To mark the 100-year milestone, the mosque is organizing community service projects, including providing 10,000 meals for homeless people and dedicating 10,000 volunteer hours to service across Britain. The mosque has served as a significant religious and social hub, hosting interfaith dialogues and receiving various dignitaries, including royalty and heads of state.

Beyond its religious functions, the mosque has played diverse roles in local history, serving as an air raid shelter during World War II and a center for blood donations and COVID-19 vaccinations. It was granted listed status by Historic England in 2018. The community emphasizes a core message of ‘love for all, hatred for none’ through local outreach, such as providing food for neighborhood events and supporting other faith groups.