India’s Education Hub City: Every state in India has numerous colleges and universities, but did you know that there is a city called the “Capital of Learning”? This city boasts 5 universities and over 200 colleges. Here, every street offers a new subject, every turn offers a new dream, and every corner offers education. This city is none other than Varanasi. Let’s find out which universities and colleges are located here.
How many universities are there in India?
According to the University Grants Commission (UGC) data for March 2023, there are a total of 1,078 universities in the country. These include 464 state universities, 128 deemed-to-be universities, 54 central universities, and 432 private universities. Of these, Karnataka has the highest number of universities, with 43. But among the cities, Varanasi is home to five major universities and over 200 colleges.
Why is Varanasi called a hub of students?
Varanasi is not just a religious city, but also a major center for all 16 disciplines. Students from all over the country come here to study, and many foreign students also pursue their education. Knowledge and culture go hand in hand in this city.
What are the five major universities in Varanasi?
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)-
Recognized as one of the top universities in the country, BHU has a distinct identity. Its vast campus life and variety of courses are renowned worldwide. Every subject, from arts, science, medicine, engineering, to management, is taught here. Even foreign students come here to study. BHU was founded in 1916 by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya.
Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth-
Kashi Vidyapeeth is one of the largest state universities in Uttar Pradesh. Prominent figures like Lal Bahadur Shastri, Acharya Narendra Dev, and Babu Sampurnanand graduated from this university. Nearly 400 colleges are affiliated with this university, where thousands of students are pursuing higher education.
Sampurnanand Sanskrit University-
Sampurnanand Sanskrit University teaches Sanskrit, astrology, Vedas, and Indian philosophy. It offers courses ranging from diploma courses in foreign languages to PhDs. This university is considered the largest center of Sanskrit education in India.
Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies –
Located in Sarnath, Varanasi, this university is renowned for Tibetan and Buddhist studies. It is administered by the Ministry of Culture of the Government of India. It offers an in-depth study of Tibetan culture, Buddhist philosophy, and Indian traditions.
Al-Jamia-tus-Salafiya-
This is Varanasi’s largest Islamic university, established in 1967 by the Jamiat Ahle Hadith Hind. It focuses on religious education as well as the dissemination of knowledge and morality in society.
Over 200 Colleges in Varanasi-
Varanasi is not limited to just universities. Over 200 colleges offer students opportunities to study in every discipline. Some of the prominent colleges include Ambition Institute of Technology, Arya Mahila Mahavidyalaya, DAV Post Graduate College, and Harishchandra PG College.