In the heart of Punjab’s Samrala region, the residents of Papraudi village hold a deep reverence for a library built in memory of the iconic writer Saadat Hasan Manto. For them, this library is not just a collection of books but a cornerstone of their village’s identity.
Manto’s Birthplace: A Matter of Pride
Although there have been differing claims regarding Manto’s birthplace, the villagers firmly believe that he belonged to Papraudi. Each year, on his birth anniversary, they celebrate his legacy with great pride, considering him one of their own. The library, constructed on panchayat land, stands as a testament to this enduring connection.
Funding and Maintenance
Former sarpanch Manjeet Singh revealed that the project was financed by former Union sports minister Manohar Singh Gill. Since its inauguration, successive panchayats have contributed to the library’s maintenance. During his tenure from 2018 to 2024, Singh oversaw several upgrades: a solar inverter was installed, tiles were laid, and the walls were freshly painted.
Community Involvement
Ranjit Singh, the village panch in charge of the library, expressed pride in being associated with such a great writer. He noted that visitors from across the country, including Chandigarh, Jammu and Kashmir, and Delhi, come to pay homage. Just 20 days ago, a Manto admirer from Delhi visited and spent time at the library.
However, Ranjit acknowledged that visitor numbers remain low. “We are unable to keep the library open round the clock due to a lack of staff for extended hours. While the library houses around 1,000 books, including works by Manto, the general decline in reading habits has also affected footfall,” he explained.
Demands from the State Government
Elder villagers have voiced specific demands to the state government. Kesar Singh, 82, highlighted the need for funds to construct a gate in Manto’s memory and to name the village road from Papraudi to Saunspur after the writer. He also urged the government to provide a dedicated staff member so the library could remain open for longer hours, ensuring broader access to its resources.
