Rajgir, Bihar | August 8, 2025
Nalanda University hosted Dr. Neena Malhotra, Secretary (South), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, during her three-day visit to the University campus.
During her visit, Dr. Malhotra expressed delight at witnessing the magnificent and expansive Nalanda University Library, whose construction has been completed and is slated for inauguration soon. She commended the University’s exemplary net-zero and sustainability model, as well as the diverse and rigorous academic programs currently being offered.
Professor Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor, Nalanda University, along with the University team, engaged in detailed discussions with Dr. Malhotra on the future roadmap of the University, aimed at enhancing its academic, research and international collaborations.
As part of her itinerary, Dr. Malhotra visited several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Mahabodhi Temple, the Bodhi Tree, the Great Buddha Statue, Japanese Monastery, Thai Monastery, Nalanda Ruins, Xuanzang Memorial and the ancient Cyclopean Walls in Rajgir.

Dr. Malhotra assured the Nalanda University team of her full support in their endeavours to strengthen the institution’s academic excellence, enhancing interdisciplinary research and global engagement.

Soulful Flute recital by Pt Ronu Majumdar to welcome new students

Earlier on August 4 to mark the beginning of the new academic session 2025–27 and welcome the newly admitted students, Nalanda University’s SPIC MACAY chapter organized a soulful Flute recital by Padma Shri Pt. Ronu Majumdar, one of the foremost exponents of Indian classical music. The event was held at the Sushma Swaraj Auditorium and attended by students from over 25 countries, making it a culturally enriching experience for the international academic community.

Pt. Ronu Majumdar, a recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and Padma Shri, is a top-grade artist of All India Radio and Doordarshan. He commenced the recital with an evening raga, beginning with an alap and gradually unfolding intricate melodic improvisations. Accompanying him on the tabla was Pt. Lalit Kumar, a prominent artist of the Banaras Gharana and a familiar face at Nalanda University, having earlier accompanied Pt. Rajendra Prasanna. The performance also featured Shri Kalpesh Maneklal Sachala, a senior disciple of Pt. Ronu Majumdar, who supported the recital with his flute accompaniment.

Welcoming the New Cohort, Vice Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi said, “As you begin your journey of learning at Nalanda, you become part of a timeless legacy rooted in global vision. May your time here be marked by intellectual discovery, pluralistic thought and a deepening of both inner and outer understanding.”

SPIC MACAY (Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth), founded by Padma Shri Prof. Kiran Seth in 1977 at IIT Delhi, works to spread awareness of India’s cultural heritage among youth. Prof. Kiran Seth had also visited Nalanda University last year during his solo cycling journey.

Through events like this, Nalanda University reaffirms its commitment to fostering holistic education, rooted in values, global exposure and cultural sensitivity, nurturing future leaders who are academically accomplished and culturally grounded.