Patna, Bihar | 13 October 2025: The inaugural lecture of the Raj Bhavan–Nalanda University Lecture Series was held today at Raj Bhavan, Patna. Renowned thinker and  economist Swaminathan Gurumurthy delivered the first lecture on the theme “Atmanirbharta and MAGA in a Multipolar World.”

The event commenced with an address by Professor Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice-Chancellor, Nalanda University, who extended a warm welcome to the Chief Guest and the distinguished audience. Professor Chaturvedi underscored the importance of creating intellectual bridges between institutions and society, emphasizing that this lecture series will serve as a monthly dialogue platform connecting scholars, policymakers and citizens of Bihar. He highlighted that the initiative aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, encouraging academic exchange and civilizational reflection.

In his keynote address, S. Gurumurthy examined the ongoing transition from a unipolar to a multipolar world and reflected on India’s role in shaping this new order. He observed that modern societies face a crisis of disconnection from their roots and emphasized that _Atmanirbharta_ must be understood not merely as economic independence but as a civilizational consciousness of self-reliance. Drawing from India’s cultural ethos, he emphasized that the nation’s foundation rests on a duty-based framework rather than a rights-based one, urging the youth to rediscover strength in India’s timeless wisdom.

In his presidential address, Governor of Bihar, Arif Mohammad Khan reflected on India’s philosophical tradition, reinterpreting human rights through the lens of the Upanishads, which perceive divinity in all beings. He also cited Vidura from the Mahabharata as an enduring symbol of righteousness and Atmanirbharta, illustrating India’s civilizational approach to self-reliance rooted in moral strength and self-awareness.

Vice Chancellor Professor Chaturvedi further announced that the Raj Bhavan–Nalanda University Lecture Series will be organized every month, offering a sustained space for academic dialogue and public engagement. Conceptualized by Professor Chaturvedi, under the vision of the Governor of Bihar and realized through the efforts of Nalanda University, this initiative represents a collective stride toward shaping the intellectual and moral framework of a developed India.

The inaugural event marked a significant milestone in Nalanda University’s continuing pursuit of knowledge anchored in civilizational depth and contemporary relevance. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from leading academics, scholars, and Nalanda University students.