10 Facts About Bihar

Bihar, located in eastern India, is one of the most historically rich and culturally vibrant states in the country. Often referred to as the “Land of Enlightenment,” Bihar has been a cradle of ancient Indian civilization, education, politics, and religion. From being the birthplace of major empires and religions to making strides in modern development, Bihar is a land of contrasts that blends tradition with change.

Here are 10 fascinating facts about Bihar that reflect its historical importance, cultural richness, and present-day significance.

1. Bihar Was the Center of Ancient India’s Greatest Empires

In ancient times, Bihar was the heartland of two of India’s most powerful empires — the Magadha Empire and the Maurya Empire. The Maurya Empire, under Emperor Ashoka, expanded across almost the entire Indian subcontinent. Later, the Gupta Empire, often regarded as the Golden Age of India, also had its roots in Bihar. Cities like Pataliputra (now Patna) were global centers of learning, politics, and culture.

2. Birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism

Bihar is one of the few places in the world where two major religions — Buddhism and Jainism — were born and flourished.

• Bodh Gaya, in Bihar, is the sacred site where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
• Vaishali is associated with Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, who was born and preached here.
  These places continue to be major pilgrimage sites for followers of both religions from around the globe.

3. Home to the World’s Oldest University – Nalanda

Nalanda University, located in Bihar, is considered one of the world’s oldest residential universities, dating back to the 5th century CE. At its peak, it attracted scholars from as far as China, Korea, Tibet, and Persia. With a vast library and thousands of students, Nalanda was a beacon of learning for centuries. Today, a modern Nalanda University has been re-established nearby to revive its legacy.

4. Rich Literary and Cultural Heritage

Bihar has produced many great poets, writers, and thinkers throughout history. Ancient scholars like Chanakya (Kautilya), the author of Arthashastra, and Aryabhata, the famous mathematician and astronomer, were from Bihar. In modern times, writers like Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, Phanishwar Nath ‘Renu’, and Bhikhari Thakur have enriched Hindi and Bhojpuri literature.

5. A Land of Festivals and Folk Traditions

Bihar’s cultural calendar is full of colorful festivals and folk celebrations. The most iconic is Chhath Puja, a unique sun-worshipping festival celebrated on the banks of rivers with great devotion. Other festivals include:

• Sonepur Mela – one of Asia’s largest cattle fairs.
• Jitiya, Sama-Chakeva, and Makar Sankranti are also celebrated with deep cultural significance.
  Folk music, dance forms like Jat-Jatin and Bidesia, and local theatre are vibrant aspects of Bihari life.

6. The Origin of Democracy – Vaishali, World’s First Republic

Long before modern democracy was conceptualized, Vaishali (in present-day Bihar) was home to the world’s first known republic around 6th century BCE. It had a functioning assembly with elected representatives — a revolutionary concept for that era. The Lichchhavi Republic of Vaishali is a proud historical chapter that highlights Bihar’s early contributions to democratic governance.

7. Strategically Located Along the Ganges

The Ganga River, which flows across the state, plays a vital role in agriculture, transportation, and culture. Fertile plains along the Ganga make Bihar a major agricultural hub, with rice, wheat, sugarcane, and lentils as key crops. The river also holds immense religious significance and is central to many rituals and festivals.

8. A Stronghold of Indian Politics

Bihar has been a political powerhouse, producing national leaders who shaped India’s destiny. From Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, to powerful leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan, Lalu Prasad Yadav, and Nitish Kumar, Bihar’s political movements have influenced the course of Indian democracy. The JP Movement of the 1970s, which began in Bihar, led to the formation of the first non-Congress government at the Centre.

9. Diverse Languages and Traditions

Though Hindi is the official language, Bihar is multilingual with languages like Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi, Angika, and Bajjika widely spoken.

• Maithili, with its own script and rich literary tradition, is recognized under the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
  These languages add richness to Bihar’s culture and are expressed through local literature, cinema, and folk art.

10. Rapid Development and Infrastructure Growth

In recent years, Bihar has seen rapid infrastructure development, especially in roadways, bridges, and urban planning.

• Projects like the Ganga Path (Patna’s Marine Drive) and the double-decker flyovers in Patna are transforming the capital’s skyline.
• Educational institutions like IIT Patna, AIIMS Patna, and Nalanda University are contributing to its academic revival.

Despite challenges like poverty, migration, and unemployment, Bihar has shown steady economic and social progress, especially in the areas of education, health, and digital governance.

Conclusion

Bihar is much more than what meets the eye. It is a land of ancient wisdom, spiritual enlightenment, resilience, and revival. Its contribution to India’s history, culture, religion, and democracy is immense. Today, as Bihar embraces modernization while preserving its cultural soul, it stands as a proud reminder of India’s glorious past and promising future.