The Roots of El-Abrar Mosque: Islam’s Earliest Footsteps in Sri Lanka
The history of Islam in Sri Lanka traces back to as early as the 7th century, just a few decades after the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Arab Muslim merchants, driven by trade, set sail across the Indian Ocean and anchored at the shores of Beruwala on the island’s western coast. According to local historians, even the name “Beruwala” may derive from the Arabic expression “Bi-Rawwalati”, meaning “to pull” or “to lower.” These Muslim traders brought not only goods but also the message of Islam, forming cordial relationships with the native communities and laying the foundations for a lasting Muslim presence on the island.

Beruwala: A Port Town of Muslims for Over 1000 Years
Located in Sri Lanka’s Western Province, around 60 kilometers south of Colombo, Beruwala has long been a strategic maritime hub. For centuries, it has been home to Arab and Malay-descended Muslims. Today, it remains one of the regions with the highest concentration of Muslims in the country. With a population of around 300,000, over 60% of Beruwala’s residents are Muslims. The town is distinguished by its many mosques, Islamic schools (madrasas), and deeply rooted Islamic culture. Beruwala uniquely bridges the legacy of the past with the vibrant reality of a present-day Muslim community.

El-Abrar Mosque (Maradana): A Sacred Site of Faith and Simplicity
El-Abrar Mosque in Beruwala is widely recognized as one of the earliest mosques established in Sri Lanka. Historical records suggest that its origins date back to before the year 920 CE. Over the centuries, the mosque has undergone several renovations, yet it continues to reflect a serene and functional architectural style. A small water basin in front of the mosque adds both aesthetic charm and historical depth. El-Abrar Mosque remains a silent witness to the first Muslim settlers in Beruwala, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Islam on the island.

A Timeless Sanctuary: The Contemporary Significance of El-Abrar Mosque
The Maradana Mosque is far more than a structure of stone and mortar—it is a living memory infused with prayers and nourished by centuries of devotion. The call to prayer (adhan) echoing from its minaret not only gathers the faithful of Beruwala but resonates with a spiritual invitation passed down through generations. It is a beacon of brotherhood, tawhid belief, and the collective spirit of the ummah that first took root on this distant shore. El-Abrar Mosque continues to welcome all who enter its gates with serenity, bridging the sacred past with a hopeful, prayerful future.