The name Bihar originates from the ancient Sanskrit word “Vihara”,
meaning “monastery” or “abode.” The region was once dotted with Buddhist monasteries
where monks lived, learned, and meditated. Over time, Vihara became Bihar — a land
known for knowledge, spirituality, and peace.
Bihar has been the cradle of Indian civilization. As the heart of the
Magadha Empire, with capitals at Rajgir and later Pataliputra, it shaped
political power, culture, and philosophy. The Mauryan Empire, founded by Chandragupta
Maurya and expanded by Emperor Ashoka, took India to unprecedented heights. Ashoka’s
transformation into a messenger of peace led to the global spread of Buddhism.
Later, the Gupta Empire ushered in India’s Golden Age, witnessing
advancements in mathematics, astronomy, art, and literature. The renowned universities
of Nalanda and Vikramshila became world centres of learning,
attracting scholars from across the globe.
Bihar holds a sacred place in Indian mythology. It is believed to be the birthplace
of Goddess Sita, daughter of King Janaka of Mithila. The Ramayana celebrates
Mithila as a realm of wisdom, purity, and culture.
The Mahabharata also mentions ancient sites like Girivraja (Rajgir),
highlighting Bihar as a centre of sages, kings, and spiritual power. These mythological
stories blend seamlessly with the region’s historical legacy, enriching its cultural
identity and spiritual depth.
During British rule, Bihar was part of the Bengal Presidency until it was carved out
as a separate province along with Orissa on 22 March 1912 — celebrated today
as Bihar Diwas.
Bihar played a decisive role in India’s freedom movement. Mahatma Gandhi’s first
non-violent resistance, the historic Champaran Satyagraha (1917), began here.
Bihar also gave India great leaders like Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President
of India, and Jayaprakash Narayan, whose movements reshaped Indian democracy.
Bihar’s greatest contribution lies in its spiritual and intellectual heritage. It is
the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism, whose teachings of peace,
compassion, and non-violence transformed world civilization.
Ancient centres like Nalanda shaped global education centuries before Europe’s first
universities. Teachings of Buddha, Mahavira, and Ashoka continue to inspire the world.
Bihar’s history is deeply connected with migration. In the 19th century, thousands
of Biharis were taken as indentured labourers to Mauritius, Fiji, Trinidad, Suriname,
Guyana, and South Africa. They carried their traditions with them — especially
Chhath Puja, which today is celebrated globally.
The modern Bihari diaspora thrives in academia, business, technology, and governance,
remaining closely tied to their roots.