Nalanda University Convocation 2026: President and Foreign Minister Offer Timeless Wisdom to Graduates
The second convocation of Nalanda University, held in Rajgir, Bihar, became a powerful platform for inspiring the next generation of leaders. President Droupadi Murmu and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the gathering, sharing profound insights on success, global citizenship, and the enduring relevance of India’s ancient intellectual heritage.
A Changing World Order Demands New Perspectives
Addressing the students, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar painted a vivid picture of the contemporary global landscape. He observed that the world is transitioning into a more multipolar reality, where a diverse array of cultures and societies are increasingly asserting their voices and perspectives on the international stage. This shift, he argued, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for nations like India.
In this context, the minister highlighted the unique potential of the Nalanda tradition. He suggested that the ethos of dialogue, inquiry, and mutual respect that defined the ancient university could serve as a powerful model for navigating this new era of global democratization. The principles embodied by Nalanda, he implied, are more relevant today than ever before.
Bridging India and the World
Jaishankar emphasized the university’s role as a vital bridge connecting India with the wider world. He noted that as the nation strides towards its vision of a developed India, it is imperative that India prepares itself to engage with the world, just as the world must be ready to engage with India. This reciprocal relationship, he explained, is essential for mutual growth and understanding in the 21st century.
The minister praised the achievements of the new Nalanda University, an institution established through the collaborative efforts of India and the East Asia Summit (EAS) countries. The university’s founding mission is to revive the historic glory of its ancient predecessor as a global center for learning, focusing on philosophy, history, and spiritual studies. He remarked that every milestone reached by this young institution is a cause for celebration, symbolizing the growth of an emerging seat of knowledge.
Reflecting on his personal connection to the university, Jaishankar shared that he has been associated with its journey from the very beginning. He expressed his understanding of the day’s significance for the institution’s future, having himself been a student at a new university in his own time.
Rediscovering India’s Intellectual and Cultural Legacy
The minister spoke with reverence about the name “Nalanda,” stating that it instantly evokes the rich intellectual heritage and cultural pride of India. The revival of this tradition at the new campus is not just a symbol of India’s resurgence but also of Asia’s collective rise. He noted that the world is currently engaged in deep debates about the future direction of development and progress, with much of the discussion centered on technology.
However, drawing on the spirit of Nalanda, Jaishankar offered a crucial reminder: the human element must never be overlooked. He stressed that while technological advancement is critical, it must be balanced with the timeless values of wisdom, ethics, and human connection. The Nalanda tradition, he said, powerfully demonstrates that technology and tradition, development and heritage, must advance hand in hand.
Empowering the Next Generation
The convocation also served as a moment to acknowledge the unique composition of the student body. Like the ancient university that attracted scholars from across the world, the new Nalanda University boasts a significant number of international students enrolled in its various academic programs. The sprawling campus in Rajgir is situated just a short distance from the ruins of the ancient institution, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Jaishankar encouraged the graduating students, particularly the international cohort, to act as ambassadors for India upon their return to their home countries. He expressed his confidence that they have given their best during their time at the university and that they will carry a piece of India with them, contributing to its positive image globally.
Addressing the graduates directly, the minister conveyed that each of them, along with their classmates and teachers who supported them, should feel a profound sense of pride in their accomplishments. He expressed his firm belief that all those receiving their degrees will, in their own capacity and wherever they go, continue to contribute to the growth and reputation of Nalanda University.
A Call for Balanced Progress
The central theme of the addresses was the need for a balanced approach to progress. The speakers underscored that in the rush to embrace the future, it is crucial to remain anchored to the wisdom of the past. Nalanda stands as a testament to this balance, offering a model where cutting-edge scholarship coexists with deep spiritual and philosophical inquiry.
The convocation ceremony was not merely a distribution of degrees but a reaffirmation of India’s commitment to fostering global citizenship through education. The messages delivered by the President and the Foreign Minister resonated with a call for students to be not just successful professionals but also thoughtful, engaged, and responsible global citizens. The event underscored the belief that the new Nalanda University, with its unique international character, is poised to play a significant role in shaping a more interconnected and harmonious world, carrying forward a legacy that is over a millennium old.
