J P Residence, Patna

 

A Nostalgic Visit to Jan Nayak Jay Prakash Narayan's Residence in Patna #JPResidence #PatnaHistory

Hi everyone,

As I explored Patna recently, I had the opportunity to revisit the residence of the revered leader, Jan Nayak Late Jai Prakash Narayan, located in the Kadam Kuan area. It had been a long time since I last visited this iconic place, where I used to cover events as a media professional whenever prominent central leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Chandrashekhar and others came to pay their respects to JP. In fact, having been there up teem times, I witnessed this residence transform into the epicenter of the 1970s student movement.

Standing where JP lived and passed away (October 8th, 1979), I found the place impeccably maintained. His belongings were displayed with respect and care, and the house itself was in pristine condition. However, what struck me most was the lack of visitors.

Speaking with the caretaker, I learnt that this memorial rarely sees visitors. Younger generations aren't as familiar with JP and his movement against the central Congress government. Sadly, even some leaders who emerged from that movement, now holding prominent positions, seem to have forgotten the importance of a simple visit to this historic site. Even on JP's birthday or death anniversary, the place remains largely deserted.

The low-key nature of these observances stands in stark contrast to the past, when leaders like Lalu Prasad, Nitish Kumar, and Sushil Modi made it a point to pay respects. Political parties, now critical of each other for neglecting JP's legacy, often hold their own low-key commemorations within their offices.

It's important to remember that Patna's airport bears JP's name, and a significant hospital in Kankarbagh continues his legacy. However, the Charkha Samiti he established for women and its associated library struggle with low attendance.

Let's Keep JP's Memory Alive!

Here are some facts about Jai Prakash Narayan that many may not know:

• He belonged to the Srivastava Kayastha family, the fourth child of Harsu Dayal and Phul Rani Devi. His father was a government official.
• Earning the title "Lok Nayak" (People's Leader), JP led the massive student movement of the 1970s that ultimately ousted the Congress government at both the central and state levels in Bihar.
• This movement paved the way for the formation of the Janata Party, the first non-Congress party to rule India, with Morarji Desai as its first Prime Minister.

Photos by Ashok Karan (Ashokkaran.blogspot.com)

Please share this post to help keep JP's legacy alive!

#RememberingJP #Patna #IndianHistory

Pictures details---

1. Picture of J P Residence, Mahila Charkha Samiti

2. Picture of J P Meeting room

3. Picture of J P Bed room.