What if I told you this institution behind me started with a dream. A dream born from a meeting at Campuhan Ubud. This dream became Institut Hindu Dharma Negeri. Later it became Universitas Hindu Negeri I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa.
Institut Hindu Dharma Negeri was founded on October 3 1963. This day coincided with Purnama Kartika. It was the first Hindu higher education institution in Indonesia.
The story of Institut Hindu Dharma Negeri begins with “Piagam Campuhan Ubud”. This charter embodies the desire of Hindu religious councils. They wanted a place to study dharma. This place was initially called Maha Widya Bhawana. It later became Institut Hindu Dharma.
In 2020, Institut Hindu Dharma Negeri achieved a significant milestone. It transformed into Universitas Hindu Negeri I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa. This was the first Hindu State University in Indonesia. The name honors I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa. He was a key figure in the development of Hinduism in Indonesia.
I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa was a Balinese intellectual. He significantly shaped Nusantara’s cultural thought. He was an educator, politician, artist, and religious figure. His works explored Siwa-Buddha concepts. These concepts came from ancient texts and living religious traditions.
Sugriwa advocated for the official recognition of Hinduism. He also founded the Dwijendra Foundation. This foundation established Hindu religious schools. The university’s current location continues his legacy.
A stone statue commemorates I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa. It stands near the campus on Jalan Ratna. He passed away on November 22 1973.
The university has 181 educators. 110 have a Master’s degree. 71 have a Doctorate. There are 12 professors. The university also employs 76 administrative staff. In 2020/2021, 3339 students were enrolled. Since its beginning, the institution has produced 8752 graduates.
The university spans 13.2 hectares. The Rectorate is on Jalan Ratna. Postgraduate studies are on Jalan Kenyeri. There is also a campus in Bangli Regency.
The motto of Universitas Hindu Negeri I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa is inspiring. “Terdepan dalam Dharma, Widya, dan Budaya”. In English it means: “Be the Best on Religion, Science, and Culture”.
The transformation into Universitas Hindu Negeri marks a new chapter. It signifies a commitment to quality. It also signifies inclusivity in Hindu higher education. The university strives to benefit the nation. It provides a welcoming environment for all. Universitas Hindu Negeri I Gusti Bagus Sugriwa continues to evolve. It honors its roots. It embraces the future.