Flames Cannot Destroy Knowledge: PM Modi Inaugurates Nalanda University

In his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized Nalanda's enduring legacy, saying, "Nalanda is not just a name, it is an identity and respect. Nalanda is a value and mantra... fire can burn books, but it can't destroy knowledge."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the new campus of Nalanda University, this also marks Modi's first official visit to Bihar after being sworn in for third term as Prime Minister.

Highlighting Nalanda's Resilience

In his address, PM Modi emphasized Nalanda's enduring legacy, saying, "Nalanda is not just a name, it is an identity and respect. Nalanda is a value and mantra... fire can burn books, but it can't destroy knowledge." He further elaborated, "Nalanda embodies India's identity, respect, value, and mantra. The flames of fire may destroy books, but they cannot erase knowledge."

PM Modi highlighted the international significance of Nalanda, noting, "Nalanda is not just a renaissance of India's past. The heritage of many countries of the world and Asia is linked to it." He praised the collaborative effort between India and East Asia Summit (EAS) countries in establishing the new campus, reflecting the spirit of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family). "Students have started coming here from many countries around the world. Students from more than 20 countries are studying here in Nalanda," he said.

Prior to the inauguration, PM Modi visited the ruins of ancient Nalanda University, a United Nations Heritage site since 2016. The original Nalanda University, established approximately 1,600 years ago, was one of the world’s first residential universities and a renowned center of learning until its destruction in the 12th century. The ancient university, located near the city of Rajagriha (present-day Rajgir), played a crucial role in the academic and cultural exchange of its time.

Reaffirming his commitment to education, PM Modi stated, "The renaissance of Nalanda near its ancient ruins... This new campus will introduce India's potential to the world." He expressed optimism about the university’s future, saying, "In the coming times, Nalanda University will once again become a major center of our cultural exchange."

Ahead of the inauguration, PM Modi took to X (formerly Twitter), calling it "a very special day for our education sector." He wrote, "It’s a very special day for our education sector. At around 10:30 AM today, the new campus of Nalanda University would be inaugurated at Rajgir. Nalanda has a strong connect with our glorious past."

With the establishment of the new Nalanda University campus, India rekindles its ties with its illustrious past while paving the way for future generations. The university, envisioned to cater to the educational needs of the youth, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of knowledge and cultural exchange.