The skyline of Lucknow is dotted by many historical sites – the ornate gates of Rumi Darwaza, the impressive Imambaras, and the winding Gomti River. However, on the northern bank of the river lies a building that has shaped generations upon generations’ educational journey and needs: the University of Lucknow, established on November 25, 1920. Known simply as LU, our institution wears its Indo-Saracenic architectural style with pride and aims to bring “Light and Learning” to Uttar Pradesh. Come, let us explore its rich history to get a better understanding of the historical significance of this institution.
The story of Lucknow University begins small, having only 200 students in 2-3 small rooms on the narrow streets of Khayaliganj in Aminabad. Established in 1864 as Canning High School, the school honored the first Viceroy of British India, Charles John Canning. It was founded thanks to the generosity of his loyal talukdars in Awadh, who decided to donate Eight Annas from their annual income to create an educational institution.
In its first twelve years, the College moved from its original location, the Aminuddaulah Palace, to several sites, including Lal Baradari. Eventually, it was housed in its own building at Kaisar Bagh, now known as the Rai Umanath Bali Auditorium and Bhatkhande Sanskriti Vishwavidyalaya. The provincial government supported the College by agreeing to sell the Provincial Museum building for Rs. 2,10,000. The high school became Canning College in 1866. On November 13, 1867, Viceroy Sir John Lawrence laid the foundation for a new building. After thirty years, college management sought a larger site, and the provincial government agreed to buy the college building for Rs. 2,10,000 to convert it into the Provincial Museum. Canning College remained a recognized institution under the University of Calcutta for 20 years, from 1867 until it came under the University of Allahabad in 1888.
In 1905, the Government transferred the vast walled garden of about 90 acres located north of the Gomti River, known as Badshah Bagh, to Canning College. Originally, this garden was the residence of the glorious Nasir-ud-din Haider, the second King of Awadh (1827-1837). After the pacification of Awadh, it became the Lucknow residence of the Maharaja of Kapurthala. The Maharaja later leased 90 acres of garden land to Canning College for just â‚ą3 per year. Visionaries like Raja Sir Mohammad Ali Mohammad Khan of Mahmudabad and Sir Harcourt Butler led the transition from a college to a university. Their efforts resulted in the Lucknow University Act of 1920, and on July 17, 1921, the university officially began its journey as a teaching and residential institution.
Lucknow University’s architectural design is striking and that’s for good reason, having being designed by the famous architect Sir Swinton Jacob. The main campus buildings blend Indian, Islamic, and Victorian Gothic elements. The use of deep red bricks, high pointed arches, and delicate chhatris creates a beautiful blend and style. The campus layout follows the traditional Charbagh style, featuring quadrangles that provide open spaces for intellectual conversation, known as Guftagu. One cannot forget the architectural marvel that is the Tagore Library. Established in 1941, it was designed by Walter Burley Griffin, the architect who created Canberra, Australia’s capital. Our library is a gem of its time, housing more than five lakh books and rare manuscripts, making it one of the richest academic collections in India and the biggest Library in Lucknow.
Anyone who has taken a stroll through our campus has probably laid their eyes on the beautiful Lal Baradari, a beacon and a reminder of the site’s royal history. This historic red stone structure, influenced by Indo-Islamic design, bridges the Nawabi era and the colonial academic period. As it stands, it’s the only building of its kind remaining in Lucknow. Over time, the university has expanded and maintained its architectural presence with the grand Convocation Hall and the faculties of Law, Arts, and Science, all maintaining the aesthetic harmony of red-brick construction.
Today, Lucknow University is recognized as a “Category-I” institution, reflecting over a century of educational prosperity. Its walls have witnessed the footsteps of many legendary figures, including former Presidents of India like Shankar Dayal Sharma.
Walking through the corridors of the Old Campus, one can feel the weight of the history of this institution. It inspires a sense of belonging and homely comfort and for those who like historic sites, LU is a treat for the eye and mind. From its modest beginnings in two rooms in Aminabad to the sprawling red-brick grandeur of Badshah Bagh, the journey from Canning College to LU tells a story of evolving needs, a strong commitment to educational excellence and most important, staying true to its motto: Light and Learning.
LU stands toe to toe with Lucknow’s rich cultural history and heritage, contributing to the city an educational institution that has stood the test of time for over a century. And as envisioned by its first Vice-Chancellor, G.N. Chakravarti, LU continues to be a “Temple of Learning” that draws wisdom from the past to light the way for the future.