Govindan Gopalakrishnan, an 85-year-old Hindu architect from India, has built mosques, four churches and a temple. Because he built more mosques throughout his architect career, he was nicknamed the 'Father of the Mosque'.

Govindan has been in the world of architecture for 60 years. He built many houses of worship of various religions because of his love for the unity of mankind

His career as an architect started after finishing school as he could not afford to go to college due to financial difficulties faced by his family. Instead, he joined his father, a building contractor as an apprentice.

He has collected many of his architectural works, from commercial and residential spaces to shopping centers and community centers. Govindan felt very proud when the Palayam mosque was inaugurated in 1964 by the then President of India, Zakir Hussain.

Despite not having a formal degree in architecture, Govindan's intuitive understanding of architectural techniques, uncompromising work ethic and ability has exceeded the expectations of his clients to enable him to achieve his success. His first job, when he built a three-story residence in Thiruvananthapuram, impressed the owners.

However, the turning point in his career came in 1976 when he led the construction of the Beemapally Juma Mosque in Thiruvananthapuram. A huge work, it took 18 years to complete as funds flowed slowly through donations.

Despite the budget challenges, Govindan infuses freshness and novelty into his work while trying to break away from the stereotype of quiet architecture. He also innovated in every mosque he built.

The Sheikh's Mosque in Karunagappally, for example, has the Mughal monument of love, the Taj Mahal, as its inspiration. Ziyarathumoodu Mosque near Kollam is a mix of Indo-Saracenic styles. While the Chalai mosque in Thiruvananthapuram follows the vocabulary of contemporary architecture.