Ranchi's Historic Lok Bhavan Garden Extends Public Access Following Overwhelming Response
The Lok Bhavan garden in Ranchi has witnessed an extraordinary public turnout since it first opened its gates to visitors on February 2. Official figures reveal a total footfall of 492,470 people, with a remarkable single-day surge of 266,816 visitors recorded on Sunday alone. This massive influx has prompted authorities to extend the garden's public opening period.
Governor's Directive Leads to Extension of Public Access
Originally scheduled to remain accessible until February 8, the garden will now welcome visitors until February 15 following directives from Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar. A formal notification from Lok Bhavan authorities confirmed this decision, citing overwhelming public enthusiasm and continuously growing crowds as primary reasons for the extension.
The official statement emphasized: "This extension aims to provide additional opportunities for residents to visit and experience these historic premises. The unprecedented visitor numbers over the past week reflect significant public interest, and we are maintaining all necessary arrangements to ensure smooth and orderly visits throughout the extended period."
Visitor Guidelines and Historical Significance
Public access to the garden is permitted daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with entry allowed through Gate No. 2 until 1:00 PM following standard security protocols. Spread across approximately 52 acres, the Lok Bhavan complex was originally constructed in 1930 and houses an impressive rose garden featuring around 100 distinct varieties of the flower.
Among the notable attractions are rare rose specimens including the green rose and green lips varieties, alongside popular cultivars such as Aishwarya, Tata Century, Master Piece, Sonia, Lady X, Munmun, Paradise, and Calcutta Kings.
Gardener Insights and Visitor Experiences
Nilesh Raskar, a gardener at Lok Bhavan, shared his observations: "Visitors show particular fascination with the rare rose varieties. Many specifically inquire about the green rose and green lips specimens, as these are uncommon in public gardens. Maintaining such an extensive collection requires dedicated, year-round care and attention."
Beyond the floral displays, visitors have praised the garden's diverse attractions which include ornamental water tanks, a large spinning wheel historically used during the India-Pakistan war, and imported flowers from international sources. The Shaheed Sthal, also known as Murti Garden, serves as another significant point of interest, attracting visitors keen to understand the site's historical and emotional importance.
Public Appreciation for Heritage Access
Gautam Kumar, a visitor from Ormanjhi, expressed his appreciation: "This place represents a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture all in one location. The arrangements are exceptionally well-maintained, creating a memorable experience for all visitors."
Another visitor, Rashmi Sharma, commented on the initiative's broader significance: "Opening this garden to the public represents a commendable effort by authorities. Heritage locations like this should be made accessible more frequently. It provides citizens with valuable opportunities to connect with both historical legacy and natural beauty."
The extended access period until February 15 allows more residents to experience this unique combination of botanical beauty and historical significance that has captured Ranchi's public imagination.
