Karnataka Government Plans to Rejuvenate Historic Educational Hub Nagavi

Kalaburagi: The Karnataka government has set its sights on rejuvenating the historic educational hub of Nagavi in Kalaburagi district, with plans to restore its former prominence.

This once-renowned educational hub, steeped in history, is now poised to regain its former glory.

During his visit to the district on Tuesday, Minister for Tourism, Law, and Justice HK Patil announced a comprehensive effort to rejuvenate the iconic Nagavi University, located on the outskirts of Chittapur town.

Speaking to reporters after inspecting the iconic 60-pillar temple at Nagavi and  participation in the agreement program for the adoption of the memorial under the 'Namma Smaraka' scheme, Patil stated, "Around 1800 years ago, Nagavi was a center for higher education. Inscriptions discovered confirm the teaching of Sanskrit, Vedas, Mathematics, and Manu literature. Historians assert that Nagavi University holds the distinction of being Karnataka's first university, underscoring its historical significance," he said.
The minister said that the establishment of a PG Center or Research Center under Hampi Kannada University could shed more light on this place.

"It is essential to take measures to revive the former eminence of Nagavi University," Patil said and assured his cooperation in this regard.

Patil announced that Bengaluru based United Way Foundation has taken the initiative of adopting key monuments in Nagavi, including the 60-pillared temple, Nandi Well, Mallappana Gudi, and Mallikarjuna temple.

The adoptive agency is slated to submit a detailed project report within the next month, outlining strategies for conservation, development, and infrastructure strengthening, after which the government will take proactive measures for its protection.

Patil emphasized that preserving historical landmarks requires community involvement, citing the enthusiastic response from Kannadigas abroad during a recent Zoom meeting.

"When recently approached via a Zoom meeting, approximately 20 Kannadigas living in the US displayed a strong enthusiasm for the preservation of the monument in their hometown," he remarked.

Patil said that the department is in the process of organizing a three-day tourist circuit that will link historical, religious, and tourist sites in Bidar, Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, and Bagalkot districts.

"This initiative aims to provide visitors with an opportunity to delve into the rich history, art, and culture of the state," he emphasized.

Looking ahead, the entire Nagavi area, encompassing the temple, will undergo transformation into a prominent tourist destination over the next two years, with a Rs 20 crore development project designed to enhance accessibility and amenities.

District in-charge Minister Priyank Kharge outlined plans to establish Nagavi as an educational hub, emphasizing the significance of Chittapura as a repository of knowledge.

"Efforts will include cleaning, fencing, and preserving the environs of Kalaburagi Fort, as well as developing Sannathi, a site of Buddhist significance," he added.