One of Chennai's most prominent mosques, originally constructed in 1800 by Nawab Umdat-Ul-Umrah. The mosque takes its name from the neighbourhood — said to derive from the number of lamps needed to illuminate the building for worship. The current white-domed structure dates from a later reconstruction and is an unmistakable landmark on Anna Salai.
Non-Muslim visitors are generally welcome outside of prayer times; dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. Fridays draw the largest crowds, with worshippers spilling out onto the pavement for the midday prayer.