Nalanda University, located in present-day Nalanda district of Bihar, was the most renowned ancient center of Buddhist learning in India. It attracted scholars from all over Asia and played a crucial role in the growth, preservation, and spread of Buddhism. Foundation of Nalanda University Established in the 5th century CE during the reign of Kumaragupta …
Bihar is considered the birthplace and heartland of Jainism, one of the oldest religions of India. The 24th and last Tirthankara, Vardhamana Mahavira, attained spiritual enlightenment in Bihar. Many important events in the development of Jainism are directly connected to this region. Birth of Mahavira Vardhamana Mahavira was born in 599 BCE at Kundagrama near …
Bihar holds a special place in the history of Buddhism as it is the land where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Many of the most important events in Buddha’s life and the growth of Buddhism are directly linked to Bihar. Birth of Buddhism Siddhartha Gautama (later the Buddha) was born at Lumbini …
The Gupta Empire originated from Magadha (Bihar) and marked the beginning of India’s Golden Age. The Guptas brought political stability, prosperity, and great advancements in science, art, literature, and trade. Chandragupta I (319–335 CE) Founder of the Gupta dynasty. Expanded territory through matrimonial alliances, especially with the Licchavis. Assumed the title of Maharajadhiraja (King of …
The Mauryan Empire was the first pan-Indian empire, founded after the fall of the Nandas. It marked the beginning of centralized administration and large-scale political unity in India. Chandragupta Maurya (321–297 BCE) Founder of the Mauryan Empire with the guidance of Chanakya (Kautilya). Defeated the Nanda dynasty and captured Magadha. Fought and defeated Seleucus Nicator …
Magadha was one of the most powerful Mahajanapadas of the 6th century BCE. It rose to political prominence due to its fertile land, iron resources, and strategic location near the Ganga. Over time, Magadha expanded to dominate north India and became the nucleus of great empires like the Mauryas and Guptas. Factors for Magadha’s Rise …
The history of Bihar goes back to ancient times, when it was the cradle of powerful kingdoms, flourishing trade, and great cultural and religious movements. Known in ancient texts as Magadha, Bihar was the political, economic, and spiritual heart of India. It played a central role in the rise of Buddhism, Jainism, and the great …
India became independent on 15th August 1947, ending nearly 200 years of British colonial rule. The post-independence period was marked by nation-building, consolidation, and challenges arising from partition, refugee crises, and political integration. Key Challenges After Independence Partition and Refugee Crisis Partition of India led to mass migrations, with 10–15 million people crossing borders. Communal …
The Partition of India (1947) was the division of British India into two independent dominions: India and Pakistan. It was the culmination of decades of nationalist struggle, communal tensions, and political negotiations. Background By the mid-1940s, India was politically polarized between the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League. The Muslim League, under Jinnah, demanded …
The India Independence Act was passed by the British Parliament on 18th July 1947, giving legal effect to the partition and independence of India and Pakistan. It marked the formal end of British colonial rule. Background Following the Mountbatten Plan (3rd June 1947), the British needed a legal framework to implement independence. India and Pakistan …