Rajasthan University

How many universities can claim their first office was a fort? Rajasthan University can. Located right here in Jaipur, Rajasthan University, often called RU, began its life within the historic Kesargarh Fort in 1947. Originally known as the University of Rajputana, it was established by an act of the State Legislative Assembly. Its current name, Rajasthan University, was adopted in 1956. This university wasn’t born overnight. Discussions for a dedicated university in the Rajputana region began as early as 1921. The initial proposal involved affiliating existing colleges in Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ajmer with Allahabad University. However, the location proved a point of contention. Decades later, Sir Mirza Ismail, Jaipur’s Prime Minister, revived the idea. He even appointed J.C. Rollo as a special education officer to pursue the project. By December 1946, representatives from various states including Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Alwar, and Jaipur reached a consensus. They chose Jaipur as the site for the new university. Dr. G.S. Mahajani, then Principal of Ferguson College in Pune, became Rajasthan University’s first Vice-Chancellor. His vision shaped the university’s early years. He even suggested the motto, “Dharma Is the Root of the Prestige of the Whole World.” The current campus, spanning over 700 acres along Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, wasn’t the university’s first home. It started in the Kesargarh Fort, adding a touch of regal history to its origins. The foundation stone for the current campus was laid on February 20, 1949, by C. Rajagopalachari, India’s first Governor-General. Rajasthan University now boasts a vibrant community of over 100,000 students. Its affiliated colleges extend across the districts of Dausa and Jaipur. Rajasthan University has evolved into a major institution. It continues to shape the educational landscape of Rajasthan and stands as a testament to the vision of its founders.