Profile / History
Know Your Bihar
The Story of Bihar
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.
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Origin of Name
From Sanskrit “Vihara” – monastery -
Historic Capitals
Rajgir • Pataliputra -
Golden Heritage
Magadha • Maurya • Gupta Empires -
Ancient Universities
Nalanda • Vikramshila
Mythological Legacy
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.
- Birthplace of Goddess Sita
- Mithila’s cultural heritage
- Sites mentioned in Mahabharata
- Sacred hills & rivers
Bihar as a Separate State
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.
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Bihar Diwas
Founded as separate province on 22 March 1912 -
Freedom Movement
Home to Champaran Satyagraha and national leaders
Global Contributions
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.
- Birthplace of Buddhism
- Birthplace of Jainism
- Nalanda’s global influence
- Ashoka’s message of peace
Migrants & Diaspora
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.
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Global Migration
Indentured labour to Asia, Africa & Caribbean islands -
Worldwide Community
Strong presence in global professions & culture
