Golden Threshold in Hyderabad Set for a Historic Revival
The iconic Golden Threshold, the cherished home of poet, freedom fighter, and India’s first woman Governor Sarojini Naidu, is poised for a majestic revival. The University of Hyderabad (UoH) has embarked on an extensive restoration project to bring back the 19th-century heritage building to its former glory.
Situated in Abids, this Indo-European style architectural marvel was a hub of artistic and political activity during India’s freedom struggle. Named after Naidu’s celebrated first poetry collection, The Golden Threshold (1905), the building holds immense cultural and historical significance.
Decades of wear and tear, water seepage, and overgrowth have left the structure damaged, especially the roof and walls. With conservation experts on board, UoH is meticulously restoring all original features to preserve the legacy and cultural essence tied to Sarojini Naidu.
Once completed, the Golden Threshold will serve as a vibrant cultural center or institutional space, celebrating Naidu’s legacy and Hyderabad’s rich heritage. The project, expected to conclude by November 2025, reflects a passionate commitment to heritage conservation in the heart of the city.
The building was donated to the University in 1974 by Sarojini Naidu’s daughter, Padmaja Naidu, initially serving as the starting point for the university’s social sciences and humanities departments. It also has special historical connections, with Mahatma Gandhi having visited twice and laying the foundation stone for the nearby Gopal Clinic.
This revival not only honors a significant chapter in Hyderabad’s cultural tapestry but also rekindles the spirit of India’s freedom movement, promising to inspire generations to come.
