The historic Ganga Prasad Verma Memorial Library in Lucknow is located on Jagat Cinema Road, near Chedilal Dharamshala. It is a public library where people of all ages, from children to the elderly, can study free of cost. The significance of this library lies in its rich literary and historical collection, making it a special attraction for researchers and knowledge seekers.
Ganga Prasad Verma: A Brief Introduction
Ganga Prasad Verma was born on August 13, 1863, in Pihani town, Hardoi district, Uttar Pradesh. He moved to Lucknow during his student years, where he spent the rest of his life. At the young age of 20, in 1883, he started the Urdu newspaper ‘Hindustani’, marking his active entry into public life. Deeply committed to social reform and education, he envisioned the establishment of a public library in Lucknow.
Establishment of Ganga Prasad Verma Memorial Hall and Library
Ganga Prasad Verma wished to set up a public library in Aminabad, for which he purchased land and planned the construction of a building. However, his dream remained unfulfilled during his lifetime. After his passing in 1914, his followers and admirers took the initiative to realize his vision by establishing the Ganga Prasad Verma Memorial Hall and Library.
Pandit Gokaran Nath Mishra played a crucial role in its foundation. On March 10, 1923, the renowned lawyer and leader Sir Tej Bahadur Sapru laid the foundation stone, and on March 14, 1925, Governor Sir William Sinclair Marris inaugurated the library. The construction of the library cost ₹1,20,000, a significant sum at the time.
Revival of the Library Post-Independence
After India gained independence, the library and its auditorium came under the patronage of former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Chandra Bhanu Gupta. He took significant steps to ensure its financial sustainability and revival.
Today, the Ganga Prasad Verma Memorial Library stands as a prestigious literary and cultural landmark of Lucknow. It houses rare books, periodicals, and manuscripts, serving as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and literature enthusiasts.
Notable Features of the Library
- A collection of rare historical documents, books, and journals.
- Free study facilities for students in the reading hall.
- An auditorium for literary and cultural events.
- Special reference materials for researchers.
The Ganga Prasad Verma Memorial Library is not just a center for knowledge and education but also an important historical heritage of Lucknow. It continues to inspire the new generation toward learning and intellectual growth.