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Question

Who founded the Central Hindu School at Benaras which was later developed into Benaras Hindu University ?

This question was previously asked in
CDS II 2021 General Knowledge Previous Year Paper (14-Nov-2021)
The correct answer is

Annie Besant

This question asks about the individual responsible for founding the Central Hindu School located in Benaras. This institution later played a vital role in the development of Benaras Hindu University (BHU).

Founder of Central Hindu School

The Central Hindu School was founded by Annie Besant in 1898. She was a prominent figure in the Theosophical Society and a dedicated educationist who aimed to promote traditional Indian values through modern education. The school was initially established for boys but later expanded. Annie Besant's vision was to create a center for learning that blended spiritual teachings with contemporary knowledge.

Development into Benaras Hindu University

Annie Besant's efforts laid the groundwork for a larger university. She envisioned a central Hindu university that would provide higher education based on ancient Indian traditions, combined with modern scientific advancements. In 1915, she transferred the administration of the Central Hindu School to the government, which was crucial for the establishment of Benaras Hindu University (BHU). While Madan Mohan Malaviya is widely recognized as the principal architect and proponent of establishing BHU as a comprehensive university, Annie Besant's founding of the Central Hindu School provided the essential initial structure and land grant.

Key Figures and Contributions

Let's look at the contributions of the individuals mentioned in the options:

  • Annie Besant: Founded the Central Hindu School in 1898, which later became the nucleus of Benaras Hindu University. She was instrumental in securing the land and establishing the initial academic framework.
  • Madan Mohan Malaviya: A key leader who championed the cause of establishing Benaras Hindu University and worked extensively to raise funds and gain support for its creation. He is often called the father of BHU.
  • Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: A renowned social reformer and educationist from Bengal, known for his contributions to women's education and widow remarriage, but not directly involved in founding the Central Hindu School or BHU.
  • Madame H.P. Blavatsky: Co-founder of the Theosophical Society, she inspired the educational and spiritual movements that Annie Besant later led in India, but she did not directly found the Central Hindu School.

Conclusion

Based on the historical timeline and contributions, Annie Besant is credited with founding the Central Hindu School at Benaras, the institution that formed the foundation upon which Benaras Hindu University was later developed.

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