Ramjas College

On this very spot, Ramjas College has witnessed a century of history. Ramjas College stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, Rai Kedar Nath. He established Ramjas College in 1917 to provide higher education to the masses. Ramjas College quickly became a cornerstone of Delhi University, joining the ranks of Hindu, St. Stephen’s, and Zakir Husain colleges as founding members. Ramjas College played a unique role in the naming of Delhi University. The college’s initial location was at Anand Parbat. Mahatma Gandhi himself inaugurated this campus. During World War II, the college temporarily relocated due to the British requisitioning its campus. A resilient spirit saw Ramjas College through this period. A group of students bravely joined the Quit India Movement and were subsequently imprisoned for their activism. A plaque near the college auditorium commemorates their sacrifice. In 1950, Ramjas College moved to its current location. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first president, inaugurated the new building in 1951. His daughters were even students here. Following Rai Kedar Nath’s death, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar served as Chairman of the Governing Body. Ramjas College is the only college in Delhi to have held this honor. In 1959, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered a memorable speech to the students of Ramjas College. The campus, often called the “Rainforest” for its lush greenery, offers numerous facilities. These include a seminar room, a conference hall, sports fields, a shooting range, an archery range, a gymnasium, and hostels for both male and female students. Ramjas College’s academic offerings are extensive. The college provides a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. In addition to these, Ramjas College offers a variety of add-on courses and foreign language options. The college boasts a vibrant student life. It is well-known for its active student societies, including the Ramjas Debating Society and the Ramjas Fine Arts Society, Mélange. The dramatics society, Shunya, and the placements society, Pinnacle, also contribute to the dynamic atmosphere of Ramjas College. The college has produced many notable alumni. These include Chief Justice of Delhi High Court Ajit Prakash Shah, actor Manoj Bajpai, and the 36th Chief Justice of India Yogesh Kumar Sabharwal. Ramjas College has also contributed significantly to India’s political landscape. The college has a rich history of student activism, sometimes marked by campus violence, reflecting the politically charged atmosphere within its walls. From its humble beginnings to its current esteemed status, Ramjas College stands as a symbol of perseverance and dedication to education in India.