Is it magic or enchantment that you feel as you stand before the Indian Institute of Technology? Perhaps it is a bit of both. The city of Benaras thrills the heart. It also fires the imagination. It is only befitting that in this ancient city stands this temple of knowledge: the Indian Institute of Technology at Banaras Hindu University.
The Indian Institute of Technology began in 1919. It was then known as Benares Engineering College. The college started small with just 75 students. There were only two departments and two hostels. Today, the Indian Institute of Technology boasts a strength of over 6600 students. These students pursue graduate, post graduate, and Ph. D. programs. There are 15 departments and three inter-disciplinary schools.
Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya founded this esteemed institution. He was an Indian scholar and educational reformer. He was also a politician and visionary. His collective vision was to impart quality education. He also wanted character building to be a central aspect. The Indian Institute of Technology has certainly come a long way in its first 100 years.
These historical buildings of the Indian Institute of Technology have stood firm. They stood firm during World War II. They have witnessed pre and post-independent India. 1928 saw the establishment of iconic hostels. These are Limbdi and Rajputana. Today, the Indian Institute of Technology has 19 hostels bustling with students. There are plans for many new hostels too.
As a premier institute of technical knowledge, the Indian Institute of Technology has always been ahead of its time. It has organized a Techno-Management fest named Technex since the 1940s. It also holds a Cultural fest since the 1980s. This was first known as Sparsh but now called Kashiyatra. The Sports meet is called Spardha.
The Indian Institute of Technology has five councils. These encompass 24 clubs and 18 sports teams. There are also three cells. It provides a holistic engineering education. Students can pursue interests and showcase their talents. The Institute plans to build a Malviya Student Activity and Computing Centre. A Startup Ecosystem is also planned. This will provide students with infrastructure and facilities. It will catalyze the flourishing culture of the Institute.
The Indian Institute of Technology has a glorious past. It has a promising future for the greatest minds of the country. The IIT BHU Foundation is a non-profit body formed by alumni. The Foundation’s aim is to engage and stay connected with alumni. They seek support to assist the Institute. This helps to execute its strategic plans.