Libraries come in different shapes and sizes across the world. But Rajasthan has a treasure trove knowledge that is one of Asia’s biggest libraries. Having a collection of over 9,00,000 books and a seating capacity of 4000 people, this hidden gem of a library is Rajasthan’s answer to the UK’s British Library. Situated beneath a temple at the Bhadariya village of the Thar Desert region this is known as the Bhadariya Library. Its 16-feet underground location is indeed a goldmine for book lovers. So why travel abroad when you can go #Vocalforlocal and visit one of Asia’s largest libraries in Rajasthan!
Tracing The Bhadariya Library
The library is built in the Bhadariya village of Pokaran Tehsil in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. Rightly so its known as the Bhadariya Library. This unique treasure trove in the Thar region has the capacity to seat 4000 people at once, which makes it one of Asia’s biggest libraries. This unique structure is built 16 feet under the ground and, because of its location, the library remains cool even during hot and humid summers.
Also Read: Migrant Workers Quarantined In Village School In Rajasthan Learn To Read And Write
History Behind Rajasthan’s Underground Library
The library was built by Harbansh Singh Nirmal, who is also known as Bhadariya Maharaj. Being an avid reader, he collected books from different regions of the world. There are also thousands of books that were gifted to him and from the year 1998, he funded to construct a temple for a goddess here. Did you know Rajasthan Makes No-Bag-Day On Saturdays For Government Schools?
According to the village residents, the Maharaja stayed in the library for several years and read almost all the books there. These books range from science and astronomy to astrology and history. One can also find dictionaries, atlas and epics inside this treasure trove. When you’re here, Camp At Thar Desert With Oasis Camps, Rajasthan
This bibliotheca features 562 glass shelves, where all the books are well-preserved and are made available to scholars and learners, who come here from all over the world for research and learning purposes. This place is a bibliophile’s dream come true and must be visited by every book lover. Now, the library is being looked after by the villagers and the temple devotees.
Deets
Address: Bhadriya Mandir Rd, Bhadriya, Rajasthan 345031
Timings: 10 AM to 7 PM