On October 2, 2022, Nalanda Academy celebrated its 9th Foundation Day — marking nearly a decade of empowering marginalised communities through education. The event was graced by Ms. Prerna Deshbrathar (IAS, Collector, Wardha) and Dh. Lokamitra (Founder, Nagaloka, Nagpur) as guests of honour. Students, alumni, guests, and well-wishers gathered to reflect on the journey and celebrate how far Nalanda has come since its humble beginnings in 2013.
Nine years ago, a small room in Bhimnagar became the beginning of something transformative.
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Nine Years of Impact
Since 2013, Nalanda Academy has supported over 1,200 students from marginalised backgrounds, helping them reach top universities across India — and 22 students are now studying abroad. Every year, the academy trains over 200 students from more than 15 states, entirely free of cost.
Beyond its residential programme, Digital Nalanda has reached over 14,000 students online, and the academy has established 15 Abhiyan Community Libraries in rural areas — bringing books and learning resources to those who previously had none.
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A Tribute to Our Roots
A special tribute was paid to the Samyak Buddha Vihar Mahila Mandal in Bhimnagar, Wardha — whose support was vital in Nalanda’s earliest days. In 2015, when the academy was still finding its feet financially, the Mahila Mandal offered free space for classes. That single act of generosity made it possible for Nalanda to survive and grow. Their contribution was honoured at this celebration as an enduring part of the academy’s story.
A room offered freely in 2015 became the foundation of a movement that has now reached thousands.
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Voices from the Stage
Anoop Kumar, Founder-Director of Nalanda Academy, reflected on the academy’s journey — from modest beginnings to training hundreds of students annually. He spoke about the role of mentorship and community, and highlighted growing initiatives like Digital Nalanda and the Abhiyan Community Libraries.
Ms. Prerna Deshbrathar (IAS, Collector, Wardha) spoke about the transformative power of education. Drawing from her own civil service journey, she urged students to stay determined and pursue their goals with courage and consistency.
Dh. Lokamitra (Founder, Nagaloka, Nagpur) spoke about the deeper purpose of education — wisdom and compassion alongside knowledge. He praised Nalanda’s role in empowering underprivileged youth and encouraged students to carry forward Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision.
Education is not just an opportunity — it is a pathway to a life of dignity and purpose.
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Students Who Inspire
The heart of the Foundation Day was the stories shared by Nalanda students — each a reminder of what becomes possible with the right support.
Pooja Helunde (Maharashtra) spoke about her journey from a struggling student to gaining admission at the Central University of Karnataka.
Akshay Kumar (Jharkhand) described how Nalanda helped him build confidence he never knew he had.
Vishnu Yadav (Bihar) shared how Nalanda inspired his dream of becoming an IAS officer.
Rajendra Kumar (Chhattisgarh) moved the audience with a poem dedicated to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Shweta Sawale (Maharashtra) spoke about her transition from Marathi-medium schooling to excelling in English.
Kajal Mahor (Maharashtra) presented a painting of Dr. Ambedkar to Nalanda as a gesture of gratitude.
Thuleshwar (Odisha) shared how Nalanda reignited his academic passion after financial struggles had nearly forced him to give up.
Every story shared on stage was a reminder of why Nalanda exists — and why this work must continue.
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Looking Ahead
As Nalanda Academy steps into its 10th year, the mission remains the same: to bridge the gap in educational opportunity for students who have the potential but not the access. The achievements of our students are not just personal victories — they are proof that when marginalised communities are given real, sustained support, they thrive.
Thank you to all our students, supporters, and well-wishers who have walked this journey with us. Together, we are building a future where education truly belongs to everyone.
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Celebration in Full
Relive the speeches, the student stories, and the spirit of a day that celebrated nine years of transformative education.
