Banaras Hindu University Varanasi

With incredible architecture, beautiful setting and lush greenery, the complex of Banaras Hindu University is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. Formerly known as Central Hindu College Banaras Hindu University is a renowned educational institution and also a popular tourist site in Varanasi. Sprawls over a large area of 1300 acres of land, the university was founded in the year 1916 by Madan Mohan Malviya. Over the years, the university has come into the limelight as one of the greatest learning centres in India. It has given many renowned scientists, scholars and artists to the nation. Inside the complex of this must-visit tourist attraction in Varanasi, there is a temple and various building that are truly the architectural delights for tourists. Not just this, Banaras Hindu University also includes a museum, Bharat Kala Bhavan, which is one of the major highlights of this place. Apart from the extensive greenery and architectural buildings, it’s the serene ambiance of the place that allows travellers to spend some peaceful time far away from the chaos of Varanasi.

History

It was the idea of Madan Mohan Malviya - a renowned lawyer and a nationalist activitst, to establish Banaras Hindu University. BHU is the first university in India which was established because of the private individual’s efforts. However, the effort to build the university began much before its foundation. In December 1908, at the 21st conference of Indian National Congress in Benares, Madan Mohan made his intention public of building a university. For the next few years, he continued to his focus towards his aim of building the university. Subsequently, in 1907, he applied for a royal charter for the university. However, the British Government did not respond to his application. In the year 1911, Hindu University Society was instituted by him to collect funds for the construction of the university. The year 1915 was a great success for Madan Mohan Malviya as the bill to build Banaras Hindu University was cleared by the Imperial Legislative Council. And finally comes the year 1916 when BHU was established.

Architecture

Located in the southern side of the city, BHU is built on land donated by the last Brahmin king of Kashi - Prabhu Vibhuti Narayan Singh. The layout of the entire campus is a semicircle with extensive greenery and well-paved roads. The architecture of the buildings built inside of Banaras Hindu University boast impressive Indo-Gothic design. Besides, there are more than 60 hostels that provide accommodation to over 12000 students. Apart from this, the complex also includes a library, hospital and also a museum.