Rajasthan Vidyapeeth Celebrates 89th Foundation Day; Statue of Pandit Janardan Rai Nagar Unveiled

Udaipur: Rajasthan Vidyapeeth marked its 89th Foundation Day on Thursday with grand celebrations at the Shramjeevi College campus. The event featured the unveiling of the statue of the institution’s founder, visionary Pandit Janardan Rai Nagar, followed by floral tributes in his honor. The ceremony was attended by Chancellor Bhawarlal Gurjar, Vice-Chancellor Prof. S.S. Sarangdevot, Peeth Sthavir Kaushal Nagda, former Vice-Chancellor Prof. Divyaprabha Nagar, and Prful Nagar.

The statue was unveiled by 11 priests led by Pandit Lokesh Paliwal with traditional chants. At the outset, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sarangdevot congratulated all staff and highlighted Pandit Janardan Rai Nagar, affectionately known as Janu Bhai, for dedicating his life to educating the underprivileged. “His struggles, humane vision, and social commitment remain a source of inspiration. He championed democratic values and ensured education reached every corner of society,” he said.

Prof. Sarangdevot reflected on the institution’s journey, noting that the sapling planted in 1937, ten years before India’s independence, has grown into a mighty banyan tree. “It is the responsibility of all Vidyapeeth members to protect and nurture this legacy. The statue of Janu Bhai inspires us, gives strength, and reminds us of his presence in challenging times. Today, with over 200 courses recognized by UGC and relevant councils, and an annual budget of ₹70 crore from humble beginnings, the institution has set remarkable benchmarks,” he added.

Chancellor Bhawarlal Gurjar emphasized the Vidyapeeth’s vital role in the nation’s educational, social, and cultural progress. “Foundation Day is a time to assess past achievements and embrace new responsibilities. The younger generation must carry forward Janu Bhai’s vision for Mewar’s rural communities. Teachers have the duty to shape exemplary students who can contribute to society,” he stated.

The celebrations began with a flag hoisting at the Pratapnagar campus, followed by the singing of the institution’s anthem. Peeth Sthavir Dr. Kaushal Nagda motivated staff to strive for greater heights for the Vidyapeeth. Guest of honor Dr. Praful Nagar highlighted that Pandit Nagar’s visionary approach to education can inspire current and future generations. Former Vice-Chancellor Prof. Divyaprabha Nagar also praised Pandit Nagar’s dedication to education, society, and the nation, noting the early influence of his mother in instilling values of service and commitment.

Registrar Dr. Tarun Shrimali and Dr. Hemendra Chaudhary conducted the proceedings, while Prof. Malay Paneri expressed gratitude. The event saw participation from eminent academicians and city dignitaries, including Prof. M.P. Sharma, Prof. P.R. Vyas, Dr. Pankaj Chaudhary, Prof. Shashi Chitoda, Dr. Yuvraj Singh Rathore, Dr. Bhawanipal Singh, Purushottam Sharma, Yogesh Saxena, Sharvansh Nagar Saxena, Dr. Kala Munet, Prof. Saroj Garg, Prof. Jeevan Singh Kharkwal, Prof. Gajendra Mathur, Dr. S.B. Nagar, Dr. Manju Mandot, Dr. Babita Rasid, Dr. Shailendra Mehta, Dr. Dhamendra Rajora, Dr. Dilip Singh Chahaan, Dr. Sapna Shrimali, Dr. Hina Khan, Dr. Neeru Rathod, Dr. Sunita Murdia, Dr. Avneesh Nagar, Dr. Rajan Sud, Dr. Aparna Srivastava, Dr. Alok Nanda, Dr. Balidan Jain, Dr. Om Parikh, Dr. Vijay Dalal, Uday Bhan Singh, along with the institution’s deans and directors, who all paid floral tributes to Pandit Janardan Rai Nagar.

The 89th Foundation Day underscored Rajasthan Vidyapeeth’s ongoing commitment to literacy, quality education, and value-based learning, reaffirming its pivotal role in shaping a progressive and enlightened society.