When the sun sets, a new dawn begins at PU
From late-night study marathons in the A C Joshi Library to jam sessions at Gandhi Bhawan, PU comes alive after sunset.
5 min read
UBS, PU, is considered one of north India’s premier institutions for management education (File Photo)Written by Arman
Although it is wracked by protests these days, the Panjab University (PU) doesn’t go to sleep when the sun sets — it comes alive in a different light. With 24×7 access to hostels and key facilities, the campus has developed a unique nightlife culture that blends academic rigour with artistic expression and late-night bonding. Whether it’s students pulling all-nighters in the library, sharing Maggi at the Night Cafe, or strumming guitars outside Gandhi Bhawan, the PU’s after-hours buzz is a reflection of its dynamic student life.
It’s not just an academic institution — it’s a place that has shaped personalities who have left their mark globally, including former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, former lieutenant governor of Puducherry Kiran Bedi and famous Punjabi singer Dr Satinder Sartaj. And it continues to do so, even under moonlight.
A C Joshi Library: the academic nerve centre at night
Designed by Swiss architect Pierre Jeanneret in collaboration with university architect B P Mathur, library expert B S Kesavan, and librarian J S Sharma, the A C Joshi Library has been the heart of the university since its inauguration by former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1963.
Its two main reading halls, oriented to face the Shivalik Hills, offer natural daylight during the day and a quiet, determined atmosphere by night. After dark, it becomes a haven for students chasing deadlines, cramming for exams or preparing for competitive tests.
“During exam season, it becomes a battlefield of open books and tired eyes, where students wage a relentless war against time,” said Jayanti, who is doing post graduation in economics. For many, the library holds memories of perseverance and shared struggle. “I’ve pulled countless all-nighters there. If you haven’t spent time in A C Joshi, you haven’t really lived university life,” said Jasleen Saini, a former PU student.
Despite its seating capacity of over 500, students are often seen sitting on floors during peak seasons. “Every seat is a prized possession. Even when they’re all taken, students find corners or sit cross-legged on the floor — driven by sheer will to study,” Jayanti added.
The Night Cafe: fuel for the night owls
For the past six years, Dinesh Kumar, Ramana and Gaurav have been running the Night Cafe from 8 pm to 4:30 am. They serve over 250 students daily, offering tea, coffee and Maggi — a ritual for many during stressful exam nights. During exams, footfall often touches 350.
Even PU alumni drop by to relive memories. “Some of our best customers are people who graduated years ago. They come here just to feel the energy again,” the cafe owners said.
Gandhi Bhawan: music and memories after dark
The iconic lotus-shaped Gandhi Bhawan — another Jeanneret design — becomes a cultural hotspot by night. Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, the building is a magnet for student musicians and performers. From informal jam sessions to open-air mehfils, it provides a creative outlet after academic hours.
“As an artist, I use the PU’s nightlife to hone my skills. Whether it’s singing at Gandhi Bhawan or in hostel rooms, there’s always someone encouraging me to keep going,” said Harbir Singh, a student and singer.
The scenic surroundings also make Gandhi Bhawan a favourite spot for late-night birthday celebrations. Akashdeep Singh, a BA Economics (Honours) student at the university, recalled: “One of our friends has his birthday during exams. We step out of A C Joshi at midnight, cut the cake here, and then head back to study. It’s become our little tradition”.
Sector 15 and PGI street food: late-night comfort food
Just beyond the campus gates, the adjoining Sector 15 Patel Market and PGIMER street-food strip are key parts of the PU’s nightlife ecosystem. Their proximity to both hostels and PG accommodations makes them go-to spots for late-night snacks. Some food joints even offer space for musical events and group hangouts.
The south campus gap
While the north campus thrives after dark, students from PU’s south campus often feel left out. “There’s no proper transport or safety in the evenings,” said Nishita Vashistha, a south campus’ GH10 resident. “We miss out on the vibrant nightlife others enjoy.”
Despite equal academic and co-curricular opportunities, concerns around safety — including eve-teasing and lack of surveillance — prevent many students, especially women, from fully experiencing what the university has to offer at night.
Strengthening campus security, expanding transport options, and ensuring equal access could help level the field because at the PU, learning and living don’t stop with the setting sun.
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