West Bengal, is a land where education isn’t just a pursuit—it’s a legacy. Swami Vivekananda once said, “Educate and raise the masses, and thus alone a nation is possible.’’ Since ancient times, India has been home to renowned universities like Nalanda and Takshashila. West Bengal, in particular, has witnessed many eminent scholars who have studied and taught at the universities in Bengal.  The Bhakti movement led by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the spiritual teachings of Sri Aurobindo and Swami Vivekananda, the social reforms of Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and many other significant contributions have solidified West Bengal’s position as a cradle of higher education.

The Torchbearers of Academia

The state boasts various educational institutions, many of which have played pivotal roles in shaping India’s academic landscape. One such institution is the Senate of Serampore College, established in 1818  in a Danish settlement of Serampore by Christian missionaries. In 1829, it was granted a Royal Charter by King Frederick VI of Denmark, making it India’s first institution to have the status of a university. The college’s primary objective was to provide theological training for Christian ministry, but it also played a vital role in promoting education and social welfare.

Almost four decades later another prominent institution, The University of Calcutta, was established in 1857 under the tenure of Lord Canning. This institution, initially a reflection of its London counterpart, has evolved into a unique beacon of learning The university’s campus is a treasure trove of historical buildings, artifacts, and a vast library collection. It has also undergone modernization efforts to meet the demands of contemporary education.

Today, the university’s campus boasts three iconic buildings: Dwarbhanga, Centenary, and Ashutosh. Beyond the academic realm, the University has opened its doors to the public, offering historical tours and educational experiences to explore its rich collection of artifacts, jewel pieces, and crafts. The University’s museum houses over 25,000 artifacts, while its sprawling Central Library in Centenary Hall is spread across 10 floors. It is now home to more than 7 lakh books, including rare volumes that have been digitized. The library’s global reach is evident in its daily average of over 2 lakh hits worldwide. In a nod to inclusivity, it also features a Braille library with over 10 audio systems.

Beyond its academic offerings, the university has a deep connection to the city’s history. Several heritage buildings, such as the Writers’ Building and Town Hall, have been associated with the university throughout the years. These structures stand as silent witnesses to the university’s evolution and its enduring impact on the city.

An Encounter with Genius: My Journey at the University of Calcutta

During my brief journey at the University of Calcutta, I  enrolled in a short course on Buddhism at its iconic College Street campus. There, I had the good fortune to meet one of the university’s gems: Dr. Somnath Mukhopadhyay. As a professor and council member of the Asiatic Society and Indian Museum, his lectures were nothing short of captivating. His ability to weave intricate stories from historical texts, engage students with innovative activities, and help students in academic pursuits made him a favorite among many. His co-authored book Vision & Creation, with Kalyan Chattopadhyay, became my go-to source of inspiration, guiding me long after I left those hallowed halls.

Pioneering Spirits: Bengal’s Educational Firsts

In addition to the Senate of Serampore and the University of Calcutta, West Bengal is home to several other notable universities and colleges. Presidency University, which originated as the “Hindoo College,” has a long and illustrious history. Bethune College stands as a symbol of empowerment for women in India. Founded in 1879, it was the first women’s college in India, and it has played an instrumental role in shaping the future of female education in the country.

Calcutta Medical College holds the distinction of being Asia’s first medical school, to set high standards for medical research and practice. Bengal Engineering and Science University, formerly known as the Calcutta College of Civil Engineering, has been a pioneer in engineering education.

West Bengal’s legacy in higher education is certainly undeniable, it transcends the mere acquisition of degrees. It’s about carrying forward a legacy, about being part of a narrative that began centuries ago and continues to unfold. It’s about keeping alive the flame of knowledge that has burned bright for generations, illuminating the path to a brighter future. As Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar said, “The purpose of education is to create a better world, where every individual can reach their full potential.” 

References:

https://www.caluniv.ac.in/

https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/Hundred_Years_of_the_University_of_Calcu/-lppAAAAIAAJ?hl=en

https://lbb.in/kolkata/Calcutta-University-Library/

https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/The_Cradle_of_Modern_Missions/U-lNAQAAMAAJ?hl=en

https://www.news18.com/news/buzz/did-you-know-the-serampore-college-is-nearly-200-years-old-19-oldest-indian-universities-that-are-over-centuries-old-703751.html

https://www.oikoumene.org/news/wcc-general-secretary-receives-honorary-doctorate-from-serampore-college

Authors note:

Ishani Gupta, an avid archaeology and culture enthusiast, embraces life as an explorer with a profound fascination for historical narratives. She believes that every story from the past is worth discovering. The allure of heritage deeply resonates with her, and she aspires to be a curator of such treasures. In addition to her dedication to research as a profession, Ishani finds joy in reading, writing, yoga, and pilates.