Rajgir/Patna: India’s president Droupadi Murmu addressed the second convocation ceremony of Nalanda University at its Rajgir campus on Tuesday, describing the occasion as a reaffirmation of a “timeless civilisational promise”.
In her address, President Murmu said the ceremony symbolised the enduring ideals that “knowledge shall endure, dialogue shall prevail, and learning shall continue to serve humanity”. She congratulated the graduating students and highlighted the university’s strong international character, with representation from more than 30 countries.
“It is heartening to see that today’s Nalanda University is once again attracting international students. This is a positive sign of Nalanda University re-emerging as a prestigious center for knowledge and education. I am confident that Nalanda University will emerge as a leading educational institution in Asia and the world. It will establish a distinct identity not only for its academic excellence but also for its values. It brings me great joy to see that the university is continuously moving forward in this direction through interdisciplinary learning, international cooperation, and engagement with local communities,” the president said.
On University’s Sahbhagita intiative, the President added, “It is essential for any university to remain connected to its local environment. The benefits of its progress should also reach the local community where it is established. I commend the university’s ‘Sahbhagita Samvad’ initiative, through which meaningful efforts are being made to connect with local communities and traditional knowledge systems.”
Bihar governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd.) described Nalanda as a symbol of “continuity and renewal”, blending ancient wisdom with contemporary aspirations. He said the institution reflects enduring values capable of guiding humanity’s future and plays a key role in strengthening cultural and intellectual ties across South and Southeast Asia.
Hon’ble Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd) participated in the Second Convocation of Nalanda University, Rajgir.@nalanda_univ pic.twitter.com/GhAiV4xzsn
— Bihar Lok Bhavan (@GovernorBihar) March 31, 2026
India’s external affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar emphasised the university’s international character, noting its growing relevance in an interconnected world.
“This University is unique in its international character. While that has always had a value, it is even more so in this age of globalization. As we advance towards a Viksit Bharat, it is essential that India is ready for the world and equally, the world for India. This requires coming generations to be more connected, to be more sensitive to global developments, and I am sure the graduating cohorts can make a difference in this regard. International students in particular can promote India in their respective countries when they go back. All of you, I know, have given their best here and I know equally that you are taking a part of India back with you,” he said.
Jaishankar added: “The Nalanda tradition can be a powerful influence in this democratization of the global order. And also be a reminder that technology and tradition – vikas bhi, virasat bhi – must march hand-in-hand.”
Bihar’s rural development and transport minister Shrawon Kumar said Nalanda represents not merely the conferral of degrees but the holistic development of character and intellect, underscoring its historical significance.
Vice-chancellor Sachin Chaturvedi welcomed the dignitaries and presented the university’s report, outlining initiatives such as the LEAP (Learn, Earn and Pioneer) programme, Sahabhagita Samvada, and efforts to strengthen local and global engagement.
During the visit, the president inaugurated the newly established 2,000-seater Vishvamitrālaya auditorium and visited the Sahabhagita Pradarshani, where she interacted with participants and members of the local community. She also conferred gold medals on meritorious students.
The university also acknowledged the support of the Archaeological Survey of India in creating a replica of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, which was presented to the president as a souvenir.
The second convocation marked a significant milestone in Nalanda University’s revival, bringing together tradition and modernity, India and the world, while shaping globally conscious and socially responsible leaders for the future.
