Bihar has a rich historical and cultural heritage, dating back to ancient times. It was the center of several prominent empires, including the Maurya Empire, which was ruled by the famous emperor Ashoka.
Bihar is home to the ancient Nalanda University, which was a renowned center of learning in the ancient world. Established in the 5th century CE, it attracted scholars and students from across the globe.
Bihar holds immense significance in Buddhism. Bodh Gaya, located in Bihar, is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
The Mahabodhi Temple, located in Bodh Gaya, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Buddhist spirituality.
Chhath Puja is a significant festival celebrated in Bihar. It is dedicated to the Sun God and involves fasting, offering prayers, and performing rituals at the banks of rivers or ponds.
It is known for its folk music, dance forms like Jat-Jatin, Jhijhian, and the famous Chhau dance.
Litti Chokha, a popular street food, is a must-try delicacy. Other traditional dishes include Sattu Paratha, Dal Puri, and Khaja.
The economy of Bihar is primarily agrarian, with agriculture being the main occupation of the majority of the population. The state is known for its fertile Gangetic plains.
The capital city of Bihar is Patna, which is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
The Department of Mathematics at ETH Zurich is known for its cutting-edge research and strong academic environment.