Bihar , Rich With History or You Just Focus On Civic Sense?
Rishit raj | Feb 27, 2025, 23:49 IST
This article sheds light on the unfair stereotypes about Bihar while highlighting its rich history, contributions to India’s governance, and global impact. From being the cradle of ancient learning and democracy to producing a significant number of IAS officers, Bihar has long been a hub of excellence. The article also discusses Jayaprakash Narayan’s fight for democracy and Bihar’s contributions to the world in fields such as mathematics, spirituality, and agriculture. It calls for a re-evaluation of Bihar’s reputation and recognition of its intellectual and historical wealth.
Bihar, one of India's oldest and most historically significant states, has often been subjected to negative stereotypes regarding civic sense and development. In recent years, discussions about Bihar have been marred by misconceptions and misplaced judgments. However, what is frequently overlooked is the state's profound historical legacy, its unparalleled contribution to the nation, and its remarkable intellectual achievements, including producing some of the highest numbers of IAS officers in India.
Bihar is the birthplace of two major religions, Buddhism and Jainism, and home to some of the world’s oldest centers of learning, such as Nalanda University and Vikramshila University. These institutions attracted scholars from all over the world, positioning Bihar as a hub of global intellectualism.
Historically, Bihar played a key role in the Maurya and Gupta Empires, both of which laid the foundations of Indian governance and administration. The legendary ruler Ashoka the Great, who promoted Buddhism across Asia, belonged to Bihar. Even the first recorded republic, the Vajji Confederacy, flourished in Bihar, showcasing an early model of democracy.
Despite socio-economic challenges, Bihar has consistently been among the top states producing Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officers. Many of India’s finest bureaucrats hail from Bihar, demonstrating the intellectual rigor and determination of its people. Coaching hubs in Patna and other cities prepare thousands of aspirants each year, many of whom go on to serve in key positions in the Indian government.
One of Bihar’s greatest contributions to modern India is Jayaprakash Narayan, a freedom fighter and political thinker who played a pivotal role in the Total Revolution Movement (Sampoorna Kranti). His leadership against corruption and his fight to uphold democracy during the Emergency period (1975-77) shaped Indian politics and inspired generations to stand for justice and integrity.
Bihar, like any other state, faces urban challenges such as infrastructure development and civic administration. However, to single out Biharis as lacking civic sense is an unfair generalization. The reality is that Bihar has a vibrant, hardworking population that has made strides in various fields, including technology, business, and politics. Several policymakers, engineers, and entrepreneurs from Bihar contribute significantly to the national and global economy.
Bihar’s influence extends far beyond India. Some of its global contributions include:
Bihar’s reputation should not be tarnished by oversimplified criticisms of civic sense. Instead, it should be recognized for its rich historical legacy, intellectual excellence, and immense contributions to Indian governance, democracy, and culture. From producing some of the brightest minds in the country to being home to some of the world’s most revered ancient institutions, Bihar remains a land of resilience, intelligence, and unmatched heritage.
A Cradle of Civilization and Knowledge
Historically, Bihar played a key role in the Maurya and Gupta Empires, both of which laid the foundations of Indian governance and administration. The legendary ruler Ashoka the Great, who promoted Buddhism across Asia, belonged to Bihar. Even the first recorded republic, the Vajji Confederacy, flourished in Bihar, showcasing an early model of democracy.
Bihar’s Contribution to India’s Bureaucracy
Jayaprakash Narayan: The Champion of Democracy
Stereotypes vs. Reality: Addressing the Civic Sense Debate
Bihar’s Contribution to the World
- Buddhism: Bihar is where Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, making it a global spiritual center.
- Mathematics: Ancient mathematicians from Bihar, such as Aryabhata, made significant advances in algebra, trigonometry, and astronomy.
- Agriculture: Bihar is one of India's largest producers of crops like maize, lentils, and sugarcane, contributing significantly to the country's agrarian economy.