Introduction
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of India’s most prestigious and oldest educational institutions, located in Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh. Established in 1916, it blends traditional Indian knowledge with modern scientific education. The university holds a significant place in the Indian education system and continues to shape the future of countless students.
Banaras Hindu University
Banaras Hindu University (BHU): A Complete Historical Snapshot
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Banaras Hindu University (काशी हिन्दू विश्वविद्यालय) |
| Location | Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Legal Foundation | Benares Hindu University Act, 1915 (Act XVI of 1915) passed by the Indian Legislative Council; came into force on 1 April 1916 |
| Foundation-stone | 4 February 1916 (Vasant Panchami) laid by Lord Hardinge, Viceroy & Governor-General of India, in the presence of Indian princes and national leaders |
| Founder | Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya—lawyer, educationist, four-time President of the Indian National Congress |
| Campus Model | Fully residential Gurukul-inspired university combining ancient Indian learning with modern sciences |
| Current Status | Central University (since 1916), NAAC “A++”, IoE tag from GoI |
| Motto | “विद्या विहिनः पशुः” (Vidya Vihinah Pashuh)—“A person without education is like an animal” |
Conception and Establishment
1906–1911: The Idea Takes Shape
At the 1906 Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya proposed establishing a Hindu university that would blend Sanatan Dharma values with contemporary scientific education. To realize his vision, Malaviya traveled across India from 1906 to 1911, conducting over 170 public meetings to gather support and funding. During this period, he drafted the university’s first bill with the help of legal expert Pt. Sunder Lal.
Central Hindu College (CHC) Transfer
Central Hindu College, founded by Dr. Annie Besant in 1898, became a crucial element in forming BHU. In 1914, Dr. Besant agreed to integrate CHC into the proposed university, giving it a nucleus for academic activities and student accommodation.
BHU Act, 1915
With the assistance of Sir Harcourt Butler, the BHU Bill was presented by Education Member J. P. Thompson and passed on 1 October 1915. This Act granted statutory autonomy to BHU, allowing it to confer degrees and shape its academic framework independently.
Foundation Ceremony – 4 February 1916
The foundation stone of BHU was laid on 4 February 1916 by Lord Hardinge, the Viceroy of India, amidst a grand ceremony attended by Indian princes and leaders. Key addresses were given by Malaviya and donors like Maharaja Rameshwar Singh of Darbhanga and Maharaja Prabhu Narayan Singh of Banaras.
Struggles, Fund-raising & Key Contributors
BHU’s establishment was not without challenges. Malaviya tirelessly collected donations, including mortgaging his own property to raise funds. Key contributors included the Maharajas of Darbhanga and Banaras, who donated land, money, and sandstone for construction. Dr. Annie Besant played a pivotal role by integrating CHC, while Sir Sundar Lal helped organize the university statutes and initiated classes in 1916.
| Contributor | Role / Contribution |
|---|---|
| Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya | Collected ₹1 crore; mortgaged property for construction |
| Maharaja of Darbhanga & Banaras | Donated land, cash, and sandstone |
| Sir Sundar Lal | Organised statutes and started classes in 1916 |
| Dr Annie Besant | Integrated CHC into BHU |
| Dr Bhagwan Das | Advocated for Oriental Studies |
Early Academic Blueprint
BHU started with a vision to provide comprehensive education combining humanities, sciences, and technical education. The initial academic blueprint comprised the following faculties:
| Faculty | Streams Opened |
|---|---|
| Oriental Studies & Theology | Sanskrit, Pali, Hindu Philosophy |
| Arts | History, Economics, English |
| Science | Physics, Chemistry, Zoology, Botany |
| Engineering | Civil & Mechanical (later IIT-BHU) |
BHU and the Indian Freedom Movement
BHU served as a pivotal center during the Indian freedom struggle. It hosted Mahatma Gandhi’s first public speech and actively participated in the Non-Cooperation and Quit India movements. The university became a breeding ground for nationalist ideas and political awakening among the youth.
Motto, Vision & Relevance
The motto of BHU, “विद्या विहिनः पशुः” (Vidya Vihinah Pashuh), emphasizes the transformative power of education. It reflects the belief that education shapes human instincts into intellect, molding individuals into responsible citizens and thought leaders.
Significance of BHU Today
Today, BHU stands as a leading central university, recognized for its academic excellence and societal contributions. With a sprawling campus, numerous faculties, and advanced research facilities, it continues to attract students from all over India and abroad. The integration of ancient wisdom with modern science makes BHU a unique educational hub, fostering a spirit of learning and innovation.
Banaras Hindu University remains a beacon of knowledge, a proud testament to Malaviya’s vision of combining traditional values with contemporary education. Its alumni include notable personalities from diverse fields, contributing to India’s progress and global presence.
Chronological Milestones
- 1906: Malaviya announced BHU plan
- 1915: BHU Act passed
- 1916: Foundation stone laid
- 1919: College of Engineering (now IIT-BHU) established
- 1939-48: Radhakrishnan era
- 1968: Institute of Medical Sciences formed
- 2019: Declared Institution of Eminence
What is Banaras Hindu University (BHU)?
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a central university located in Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh. Established in 1916 by Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, it offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes across arts, sciences, engineering, medicine and more.When was BHU founded?
The Benares Hindu University Act was passed on 1 October 1915, and the foundation stone was laid on 4 February 1916. Classes officially began later that year.Who was the founder of BHU?
BHU was founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, with key organisational help from Sir Sundar Lal and financial support from rulers such as the Maharaja of Darbhanga.Where exactly is BHU located?
The main campus spans over 1,300 acres along the western bank of the River Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.What faculties and institutes does BHU have?
Major schools include the Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Commerce, Faculty of Law, Institute of Medical Sciences, Institute of Agricultural Sciences and the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU) Varanasi.Which undergraduate courses are offered at BHU?
BHU offers UG programmes such as B.A., B.Sc., B.Com., B.Tech., B.Pharm., MBBS, B.Ed., BFA, among others, in its various faculties and institutes.What postgraduate and doctoral courses does BHU provide?
Postgraduate degrees (M.A., M.Sc., M.Com., M.Tech., MD/MS, MBA, M.Ed., etc.) and doctoral (Ph.D.) research programmes are available in nearly all disciplines.How do I apply for undergraduate admission at BHU?
Most UG admissions now use the CUET (UG) exam conducted by NTA. Certain courses (e.g. B.Ed., MD/MS) may still require BHU’s own UET/PET. Applications open on BHU’s official site (bhu.ac.in) or via the CUET portal.What are the eligibility criteria for UG programmes?
Generally, a 10+2 (Intermediate) pass with a minimum of 50 % aggregate (45 % for SC/ST/OBC) in relevant subjects is required. Specific programmes may have higher subject-wise marks or additional tests (e.g. Physics & Chemistry for B.Tech).What is the application fee for BHU admissions?
As of 2025, the application fee for general category UG aspirants is ₹600; ₹300 for SC/ST/PwD/Women. Fees are subject to change—always check the latest notification.When does the BHU admission cycle usually begin?
Notifications typically appear between February and April each year. Admit cards and test dates follow in April–May, with counselling held in June–July.How much is the annual fee for UG courses at BHU?
Approximate annual fees range from ₹5,000–₹20,000 for most arts, science and commerce courses. Professional and medical programmes cost more (₹50,000+ per year). Exact figures vary by faculty.Does BHU provide hostel accommodation?
Yes. There are over 20 boys’ and girls’ hostels on campus, managed by the Dean of Students’ Welfare. Allocation is based on merit, availability and category.What scholarships are available at BHU?
Scholarships include Central Sector Merit Scholarships, State-level awards, UGC fellowships, alumni endowments and subject-specific bursaries. Many are merit-cum-means and reserved for SC/ST/OBC/PwD students.What is BHU’s current NIRF ranking?
In the latest NIRF (2024) rankings, BHU stood within the top 10 overall universities in India and secured top positions in several disciplines.Does BHU have research and innovation centres?
Yes—prominent centres include the Interdisciplinary Centre for Life Sciences, Advanced Centre for Water Resources Development, and the Centre of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance. BHU is also an Institution of Eminence (IoE).What is the medium of instruction at BHU?
Most courses are taught in English, though certain language and regional studies programmes use Hindi or Sanskrit as the medium.How can I download the BHU prospectus?
Visit the official BHU website (www.bhu.ac.in) → “Admissions” → “Prospectus” to view or download the latest PDF prospectus free of cost.What extra-curricular and cultural activities are available?
BHU hosts numerous clubs and societies—music, drama, sports, debating, photography and cultural festivals like Vasant Utsav, Spardha and Madan Mohan Malaviya Jayanti celebrations.Where can I find the BHU campus map and contact details?
The campus map, faculty directories and contact numbers for admissions, hostel-wardens and administrative offices are available under “Campus” and “Contact Us” on the BHU website.
