₹80 lakh sanctioned for renovation of historic Vidyasagar Hall in Medinipur

The state government has sanctioned ₹80 lakh for the renovation and modernization of the historic Vidyasagar Smriti Mandir, popularly known as Vidyasagar Hall, in Medinipur town. The announcement was made by Medinipur MLA Sujoy Hazra on Wednesday evening, bringing relief to residents and cultural groups who had long demanded restoration of the landmark auditorium.

Vidyasagar Hall holds immense historical significance. The foundation stone of the auditorium was laid on September 10, 1938, by eminent scholar Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who later became the President of India. It was inaugurated on December 16, 1939, by Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. Over the decades, the hall has remained a symbol of pride for Medinipur and the wider district.

However, years of neglect and inadequate maintenance have taken a toll on the structure. Cracks have appeared in the walls, the roof leaks during the monsoon, and the stairs have deteriorated. The sound system has become nearly defunct, while chairs and ceiling fans are in poor condition, affecting cultural programmes and public events held at the venue.

According to the MLA, the sanctioned funds will be used to install air-conditioning, upgrade the sound system, and replace all chairs. The renovation will also include showcasing the history and heritage of undivided Medinipur through visual depictions on the interior and exterior walls, along with portraits and brief biographies of the district’s freedom fighters. Administrative sources said formalities will be completed soon and work is expected to begin shortly.