History of Gandhi Maidan
This historic park located in the center of Patna city in the state of Bihar. During the period of 1824 and 1833, under the British Rule it was used as golf course & horse racing track and was called as Patna Lawn. This Maidan or ground has been a witness to many historical events; the most famous freedom campaigns like the Champaran movement and the Quit India movement were launched from this very ground in which thousands of people participated. Many legendary leaders of those days like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Patel, Maulana Azad, Rajendra Prasad, Jawaharlal Nehru, etc. visited this Ground many a times and addressed large crowds to motivate the people to join the freedom struggle and gain independence from the British Rule. Earlier in 1947, this place had a house where the then Education Minister, Dr. Syed Mahmud used to live.Known as Patna Lawn during the pre-independence times entry to the lawn was allowed only to the Europeans and the rich Indians. But when Mahatma Gandhi came to this place to launch the Champaran Satyagraha, a huge crowd gathered here to hear his speech and it was the first time when the common Indian people entered the ground. Thus the Park was re-named to Gandhi Maidan in honour of the great Mahatma.
About Gandhi Maidan
Situated near the banks of Ganges River, Gandhi Maidan is spread over an area of 62 acres, and is encircled with busy roads on all sides. On the periphery of the ground rows of trees are planted giving it beautiful green landscape. The famous Golghar lie to the west is this historic Ground. In the southern side of the Park stands the world's tallest statue of Mahatma Gandhi, also called as the Father of the Nation. This statue is nearly 70-feet tall and is made of Bronze and is the main attraction of Gandhi Maidan. One can also gain knowledge about the life & teachings of Mahtama Gandhi by visiting the Gandhi Sangrahalaya or Museum located in the north-western corner of the Maidan. This magnificent museum houses various unique & historic things, pictures & records which are related to the great Mahatma and his connection with Bihar state. Today on the occasion of Independence Day and Republic Day, the chief-minister of the Bihar hoists the National Flag here which is watched by hundreds of people every year. Various Private Events, Political Meetings, Trade Fairs, Book Fair etc. are held here with the permission of the City Administration which attract thousands of people to this place. Besides this people flock to this place in the evening to have a leisurely stroll and enjoy snacks from the vendors present in the park.Gandhi Maidan has always been the main center of activities for the city of Patna, with all the prominent like Exhibition Road, Frazer Road, Ashok Rajpath, etc. running nearby to the Maidan. So this famous landmark of Patna is a must-visit place, soak its historic ambience and learn about the great sacrifices made by the Freedom Fighters
How to Reach ?
One can easily reach Gandhi Maidan from all parts of the town as it is easily connected with all major roads. Autos, buses and private vehicles are available which can be hired to reach this spot. Timings: The Park is open on all days of the week from 7 am to 8 pm and also on all Government & Public Holidays.
Distance:
From Railway Station - Patna Junction: 3-4 kms
From Airport: 9-10 kms
From Mithapur Bus Stand: 6-7 kms
So if you are planning a trip to the historic city of Patna do not forget to visit the Gandhi Maidan. Do check out if a fair is being organised on the Ground during your visit which will be an added advantage. A leisurely stroll in the beautifully landscaped green lawns of Gandhi Maidan adorned with tall trees on all sides will surely relax & rejuvenate you; it is a fun place for the young & old alike and a favourite haunt of the residents of the city especially in the evenings.
