Banaras Hindu University
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Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is one of the outstanding and internationally acclaimed institutions of learning situated in the holy city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It was founded in 1916 by stalwarts such as Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, the great nationalist leader and Annie Basant who had a vision of this emerging as the University of India. Several institutes, colleges and schools of learning comprise the university complex providing educational opportunities for in humanities, sciences, medical and technologies etc.
The Banaras Hindu University was actively involved in India’s freedom struggle, playing an important role in the Indian independence movement. Several famous freedom fighters belonged to the university who later went on to play a crucial part in the independence movement. It is said that several secret meeting of the freedom fighters also took place within its walls. Today, the university has developed to become one of India’s greatest centers of learning, contributing immensely to the progress of the nation through a large number of renowned scholars, artists and scientists.
The sprawling campus of the Banaras Hindu University is one of its highlight. Measuring over 1300 acres, it is called a mini township with several buildings, extensive greenery, well maintained roads, an airstrip etc. located within the vast expanse. Another 2700 acre Banaras Hindu University exists at Barkachha in Mirzapur district. The BHU comprises of 3 Institutes, 124 Departments, 4 Interdisciplinary Centers, 14 Faculties and 3 Constituent Schools. A large number of specialized Research Centers, 10 Departments under Special Assistance Program and 6 centers of advanced studies are also located here serving the country with their advanced and extensive studies and results.
The university also acts as an affiliating authority to enable other small universities in Varanasi to operate and offer higher educational opportunities. Some prominent buildings inside the complex are as follows:
» The Bharat Kala Bhavan: An art & archaeological museum serving for ages as a treasure trove of rare collections and artifacts.
» Sir Sundar Lal Hospital: A fully equipped hospital catering to the needs of a large population with a capacity of 927 beds.
» A medical college (Institute of Medical Sciences)
» An engineering institute (Institute of Technology)
With a view to ensure an all-round development off the students, the university provides for a well-developed sports infrastructure consisting of facilities for sports and hobbies. Utilities like Fruit Preservation Center, subsidized Canteens, Printing Press, Employment and information Bureau are located within the campus along with a large playground, a big auditorium and a flying club.
With an excellent educational standard renowned the world over, efficient facilities, hostel services and participation in a number of events and programs, he Banaras Hindu University attracts hundreds of students from all parts of the country, and some foreign students as well. About 15000 students and 2000 teachers with nearly 5000 non-teaching staff comprises the in-campus population of BHU. Most of the foreign students come from countries like U.S.A., Europe, Asia, Middle East and Africa. The university is now synonymous with Varanasi and has become one of cities most famous tourist attractions. Visitors are allowed to explore its museum, complex and other famous buildings and it is not unusual to see numerous foreign tourists taking a stroll within its vast expanse. A must see for anyone visiting Varanasi.
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