History and Establishment: The vision of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, a nationalist and visionary leader, was to create an institution that combined modern education with Indian culture and values. BHU was founded to promote higher learning, scientific research, and cultural preservation, making it a cornerstone of India's educational landscape.
The university was inaugurated by Lord Hardinge, the then Viceroy of India, on February 4, 1916, and has since played a pivotal role in India's freedom struggle and intellectual progress.
Campus and Architecture: The BHU campus is located in the heart of Varanasi, about 10 kilometers from the city's railway station and the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat. Its architecture reflects a blend of modern designs and traditional Indian styles, creating an inspiring environment for learning and innovation.
Key Features of the Campus:
Main Gate (Singh Dwar): The iconic entrance, named Singh Dwar, symbolizes the grandeur of BHU.
Residential Campus: BHU is Asia’s largest residential university, with over 30,000 students residing in hostels.
Central Library: Known as the Sayaji Rao Gaekwad Library, it houses over 1.5 million books, rare manuscripts, and academic journals, serving as a knowledge hub for students and scholars.
Lush Greenery and Parks: The campus is filled with gardens, tree-lined avenues, and green spaces, offering a serene environment for study and reflection.
Academic Excellence: BHU is renowned for its multi-disciplinary approach and houses several faculties, including;
Arts, Science, and Commerce, Engineering and Technology (IIT-BHU), Medical Sciences, Law and Management, Performing Arts, Social Sciences
Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-BHU): BHU also hosts the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-BHU), a prestigious engineering institution offering cutting-edge research and education. The university’s emphasis on scientific research, spiritual studies, and arts and humanities has made it a pioneer in Indian higher education.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance: BHU stands apart from other universities for its integration of education with spirituality.
Vishwanath Temple (New Kashi Vishwanath Temple): Located within the campus, the Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a replica of the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.The temple is a spiritual center for students and visitors, symbolizing the university's cultural ethos.
Cultural Events and Festivities: BHU hosts several cultural and academic events, including debates, music festivals, and spiritual discourses. The university is known for its vibrant campus life, fostering creativity, innovation, and intellectual dialogue.
Notable Alumni: BHU has produced some of India’s most renowned leaders, scientists, artists, and scholars, including; Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: Former President of India, Harivansh Rai Bachchan: Eminent Hindi poet, Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar: Pioneer in Indian scientific research, Kailash Nath Katju: Former Governor and freedom fighter and more.
Timings: The BHU campus is open to visitors throughout the day. The Vishwanath Temple within the campus is open from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant.
How to Explore: Visitors can take a walk or hire a cycle rickshaw to explore the vast campus. Guided tours are also available for an in-depth understanding of the university's history and significance.
How to Reach BHU?
By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, about 25 kilometers away.
By Train: Varanasi Junction (Cantt) Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, located 10 kilometers from the campus.
By Road: BHU is well-connected by road and is easily accessible by taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses from any part of Varanasi.
Why Visit Banaras Hindu University?
BHU is not just an academic institution but a cultural, spiritual, and intellectual landmark. It offers visitors a chance to witness the confluence of modern education, ancient traditions, and India’s vibrant cultural heritage. Whether you’re a student, a researcher, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, a visit to BHU is an enriching experience that leaves you inspired by its legacy and vision for the future.
BANARAS HINDU UNIVERSITY (BHU) – A Hub of Knowledge and Culture
Banaras Hindu University (BHU), located in Varanasi, is one of the most prestigious and largest residential universities in Asia. Established in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU has been a beacon of education, culture, and spirituality for over a century. With a sprawling campus spread across 1,300 acres, the university is not just an academic institution but also a symbol of India’s rich heritage and intellectual vigor.
BHU VISHWANATH TEMPLE – A Symbol of Spiritual Grace and Modern Architecture
Temple Layout and Features: The temple complex is spacious and built using white marble, giving it a peaceful and elegant look. The temple has seven separate shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Lakshmi Narayan, Durga, Saraswati, Nataraj, Hanuman, and Lord Ganesha, along with the main sanctum of Lord Shiva. Verses from the Bhagavad Gita and other Hindu scriptures are inscribed on the inner walls of the temple. Unlike many traditional temples, this temple is open to people of all castes and religions. Spiritual and Cultural Significance: The temple was envisioned by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the founder of BHU, to promote spiritual education and unity. It represents a blend of devotion, education, and national pride.Students and visitors often come here for peace, reflection, and prayer.
Location: Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Dedicated to: Lord Shiva (as Vishwanath – "Lord of the Universe")
Constructed by: Birla family (hence also known as Birla Temple)
Construction Period: 1931 – 1966
Architectural Style: Modern Hindu temple architecture inspired by traditional Nagara style.
Temple Height: Approximately 77 meters (253 feet), making it one of the tallest temple towers in India.
Visitor Information:
Timings: Usually open from early morning (around 4 AM) to late evening (around 9 PM).
Best Time to Visit: During festivals like Mahashivaratri or during the pleasant months of October to March.
Entry Fee: No entry fee; open to all.
How to Reach: Easily accessible from any part of Varanasi by auto, taxi, or cycle rickshaw. It is around 10 km from the Varanasi Junction railway station and about 35 km from the Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport..
The Shri Vishwanath Temple located within the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most prominent and serene temples in the city. It is often referred to as the New Vishwanath Temple, distinct from the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple located in the old city of Varanasi.
BHARAT KALA BHAVAN MUSEAM – A Cultural Jewel of BHU
Key Information:
Established: 1920
Location: Within the BHU campus, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Founder: Initially developed by Padma Vibhushan Rai Krishnadasa, with the support of Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, founder of BHU
Inaugurated by: Jawaharlal Nehru in 1962 in its present building
Collections and Highlights:
Miniature Paintings: Over 12,000 miniature paintings from different schools like Mughal, Rajput, Pahari, and Bengal styles
Sculptures and Terracottas: Ancient stone, bronze, and terracotta sculptures dating back to 2nd century BCE
Textiles and Costumes: Traditional Banarasi textiles, brocades, and folk costumes representing the cultural heritage of India
Manuscripts and Calligraphy: Illustrated manuscripts in Sanskrit, Persian, and Hindi, including religious texts and poetry
Folk Art & Decorative Arts: Items like masks, jewelry, ivory work, and tribal crafts from various Indian regions
Photographic Archive: Rare photographs documenting the history, art, and culture of Varanasi and India
Special Features: The museum has over 100,000 artifacts spread across multiple galleries. It also hosts temporary exhibitions, academic seminars, and workshops. Scholars and students visit regularly for research, as it has a dedicated reference library.
Visitor Information:
Timings: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Sundays and university holidays)
Entry Fee: Nominal entry fee for general visitors; free for students and researchers with valid ID
Location Access: Easily reachable within the BHU campus via auto or taxi from any part of Varanasi
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather and fewer crowds)
Conclusion: The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is not just a museum, but a cultural hub that captures the artistic spirit of India. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in India’s rich artistic and historical traditions.
The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, located inside the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi, is one of India’s finest repositories of art and culture. It is a premier museum known for its rich collection of Indian paintings, sculptures, textiles, manuscripts, and artifacts.
