About | Le Press Hazratganj

The Revival of Newal Kishore Press:

A Legacy Reimagined as Le Press Galleria

Introduction

Munshi Newal Kishore: A Luminary of Indian Literature and Culture

Munshi Newal Kishore’s life was a stirring testament to the power of the written word. Born in 1836 in Aligarh, he soared to prominence as a transformative force in Indian publishing, ushering in new avenues of knowledge during a time when ideas were stifled by colonial rule. In 1858, his press became Asia’s first modern printing house, nurturing the seeds of change through sacred texts, reformist manifestos, and stirring nationalist essays. His impact on India’s intellectual awakening was colossal; he championed education, free expression, and cultural preservation with unwavering dedication. Through it all, he remained a beacon of enlightenment, shining the light of literature onto a nascent nation.

This enduring legacy was inherited by Rani Nita Dube, who came into possession of the original 1858 press structures—witnesses to the turbulent aftermath of the 1857 First War of Independence. Her stewardship honors the dream that once offered respite, dignity, and hope to a people who had just experienced seismic shifts in their quest for autonomy.

A Vision of Renewal

The restoration of the Newal Kishore Press took shape in the reflective silence of the global COVID-19 pandemic. For the inheritors of this remarkable chapter in history, mere preservation was not enough; the building and its story demanded rebirth and celebration. Rani Nita Dube, alongside her daughters Rajika and Aprajita and her sons-in-law Rajat and Gaurav, gathered around countless discussions, exploring ways to safeguard and reintroduce this precious heritage to the city of Lucknow.

The outcome was an ambitious plan for adaptive reuse, guiding the old press structures from quiet relics of the past into vibrant hubs of learning, gathering, and inspiration. Architect Gaurav Vatsa, in collaboration with K P Architects, was entrusted with this Herculean task: to resurrect the press’s architectural grandeur while sculpting it anew for a rapidly changing modern world.

The Design Story: A Sustainable Transformation

At the core of the revival lay a fundamental desire: to truly understand and honor the building’s essence while embedding sustainability into every facet of its rebirth. Meticulous measure drawings were prepared, materials were scrutinized, and archived references were unearthed to glean insights into the time-worn construction techniques.

During India’s British colonial era, architecture had embraced a fascinating fusion—melding local craftsmanship with European engineering. Lakhori bricks, hallmark Mughal-era elements prized for their slender dimensions and robust bonding properties, stood shoulder to shoulder with the more contemporary features like arched beams and wooden trusses. While the graceful vaulted roofs lent an Islamic-European hybrid style, it was the synergy of these materials and techniques that fortified the building through decades of changing seasons and political upheavals.

Guided by these discoveries, the masterplan set out to conserve the press’s beloved features—its Lakhori brick walls, lofty vaults, and framed windows in wrought iron—while embedding the highest standards of sustainability. The project was driven by pre-energy modeling techniques to assess and optimize thermal comfort, daylighting, and ventilation strategies. By leveraging computational simulations, the design minimized reliance on mechanical cooling, ensuring that the historical structures function efficiently in the modern era.

A Benchmark in Green Retail Development

Le Press Galleria was envisioned as more than a historical revival—it was designed to set a new benchmark as the greenest shopping mall in the country. Sustainability remained the driving force behind its transformation, with cutting-edge eco-conscious solutions integrated into every element:

Passive Cooling & Daylighting: Thick Lakhori brick walls provide natural insulation, while skylights and open courtyards maximize daylight penetration, reducing artificial lighting dependence.
Energy-Efficient HVAC Systems: Advanced HVAC strategies ensure minimal energy consumption, leveraging thermal zoning and smart controls.
Renewable Energy Integration: Solar panels were introduced to supplement the energy needs of common areas, reducing the overall carbon footprint.
Water Conservation Strategies: Rainwater harvesting systems and bio-septic tanks ensure water efficiency, while drought-resistant landscaping minimizes irrigation demands.
Material Reuse & Low-Carbon Construction: Original building materials such as wooden trusses, wrought iron detailing, and bricks were restored and repurposed to lower the environmental impact.

For the courtyards and pathways, Aprajita Dube’s inspired landscaping features riotous Bougainvillea trellises and brick-paved walkways, turning once-forgotten nooks into tranquil sanctuaries for reflection and lively communal interactions.

A decision was made early on: every alteration or addition would be vetted by a unified master design team, ensuring that each courtyard, each boutique, and each café would preserve the integrity of the whole, weaving a harmonious tapestry of the old and the new. The result is a reimagined space where history and sustainability coalesce, offering an unparalleled experience to visitors and retailers alike.

By fusing architectural heritage with forward-thinking green principles, Le Press Galleria emerges as not just a commercial hub, but as a living testament to India’s rich past and a beacon of its sustainable future.

Le Press Galleria: A Living Canvas

Step into Le Press Galleria and prepare to be whisked into a realm where the past breathes anew. The thick, time-worn brick walls soak in sunbeams through lofty arches, radiating an air of gentle nostalgia. At the same time, chic boutiques and cafés hum with modern vitality, embodying the essence of this inventive reclamation.

Wander through the Galleria’s corridors, and you’ll discover an eclectic array of India’s artisanal marvels and contemporary trends. From Skyy Living, which transforms home décor into sumptuous statements, to Amrapali Tribe, reinventing age-old tribal jewelry for an evolving audience—each boutique brims with stories of craftsmanship and innovation. Mulmul captures the heart of Indian summers with its breezy cotton apparel, while South of Indus curates Lucknow’s famed handicrafts with a bespoke edge. And at India Circus, the vivacious prints and quirky designs pay homage to India’s kaleidoscopic cultural tapestry.

Tucked among these showcases of creativity lie delightful cafés like Café Hons and Philtre & Co., where the industrial-chic decor is punctuated by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and skillfully crafted menus. These lively spots function as both social catalysts and havens of relaxation, beckoning visitors to sip, converse, and soak in the Galleria’s unique spirit.

A Cultural Renaissance

Beyond being a bustling retail and dining destination, Le Press Galleria has also emerged as a stage for cultural resurgence. Its Spring Soiree 2024, attended by over 4,000 eager souls, offered a whirlwind of art exhibitions, craft workshops, and stirring live performances. A particularly unforgettable highlight was a mesmerizing concert by French artist Mary Kamaty at cafe HONS, underscoring the Galleria’s commitment to fostering global artistic exchange.

Crowning the experience is a vibrant mural by French artist Charles Foussard, a bold tribute to the power of femininity and the boundless spirit of empowerment. Together, these cultural undertakings breathe new life into the site’s original ethos—ushering in a “living heritage” that continues to inspire and enlighten.

The Newal Kishore Press Museum

At the very heart of this vibrant campus resides the Newal Kishore Press Museum, a living archive that proudly tells the story of the press’s storied past. Within its walls, visitors encounter rare manuscripts, antique printing tools, and interactive exhibits—each facet illuminating Munshi Newal Kishore’s visionary endeavors. Far more than a simple repository of artifacts, this museum envelops guests in the press’s role as a crucible for India’s cultural and literary awakening, a microcosm that preserves the essence of its revolutionary founder.

Conclusion: A Living Legacy

Ultimately, Le Press Galleria transcends its role as a mere restored architectural marvel. Under the guidance of Rani Nita Dube, the direct descendant and inheritor of Munshi Newal Kishore’s pioneering spirit, it has blossomed into a dynamic bridge connecting generations. In the inviting open courtyards, amid bustling boutiques and pulsating cultural events, visitors can feel history coming alive—reminding us all that the past is not a stagnant memory but a living, breathing force that continuously reshapes our collective tomorrow.

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Le Press offers an unparalleled blend of history, luxury, and culture. Whether you're a history buff, a fashion enthusiast, or a foodie, Le Press invites you to experience a one-of-a-kind destination that celebrates the past while embracing the future.