Butler Palace in Lucknow becomes a book cafe

Lucknow's historic Butler Palace is set to become a book café and cultural center. The iconic building is undergoing restoration work, which began in 2023. The project, funded by the Lucknow Development Authority, aims to preserve the palace's rich heritage. The restoration will be completed by the end of March 2025. According to a government official, this initiative will make the palace accessible to the public, offering a space for learning, art, and cultural events. The total cost of the restoration is ₹6 crore. The renovation includes necessary structural repairs and upgrades while maintaining the palace's original design. Public engagement activities will also be part of the project to raise awareness about heritage conservation. The new book café will provide study material, snacks, and beverages. It aims to attract students by collaborating with local coaching institutes. Besides being a reading space, the palace will host workshops, art exhibitions, screenings, and cultural performances. An art gallery will showcase the palace's history, and there will be a light and sound show featuring stories from Lucknow's past. The goal is to create a vibrant cultural hub for artists, historians, and students.