K.P. Jayaswal Research Institute, Patna
"Pioneering Research in History and Archaeology"
A Catalyst in Cultural Renaissance
Established in 1990, KPJRI is dedicated to discovering and reconstructing the rich heritage of Bihar, undertaking comprehensive projects in history and archaeology.
About the Institute
The Kashi Prasad Jayaswal Research Institute (KPJRI), located in the Patna Museum building, was established by the Bihar Government in October 1990. It operates under the Education Department, serving as a catalyst to rediscover and reconstruct the province's rich heritage.
The institute is named after Kashi Prasad Jayaswal, a great nationalist historian of the twentieth century. His celebrated works like 'Hindu Polity' addressed colonial historiography by demonstrating how the world's first democracy flourished at Vaishali, proving India's long history of self-rule.
Key Highlights
- ✔ Established: 1990
- ✔ Type: Government Research Institute
- ✔ Location: Patna Museum Building, Patna
- ✔ Named After: Dr. Kashi Prasad Jayaswal
- ✔ Focus: History, Archaeology, and Indology
- ✔ Key Projects: Comprehensive History of Bihar, Archaeological Survey (7000+ sites)
Research & Discoveries
Archaeological Excavation
A pioneer in post-independence Bihar, KPJRI's excavations led to the discovery of stone pillar remains at Kumrahar. Its excavation of a stupa at Vaishali resulted in finding the famous relic casket of Buddha, now a revered object in the Patna Museum. Recent work at Panr (Samastipur) has exposed settlements from the Neolithic to the Gupta Period.
Archaeological Exploration
The institute has launched an ambitious programme to document the antiquarian remains of Bihar. Since 2007, it has successfully explored and documented over 7000 antiquarian find-spots, including monuments, mounds, sculptures, and potsherds, creating a comprehensive map of the region's settlement history.
Admission Process & Documents
How to Get In? (Certificate Course)
- Check for Notifications: The institute announces courses on its official website or via public notice.
- Obtain Application Form: Download the application form from the website or collect it from the institute's office.
- Submit Application: Fill out the form and submit it along with the required documents before the stipulated deadline.
- Selection Process: Selection is typically based on academic merit and may include an interview or screening test.
- Enrollment: Selected candidates must pay the requisite fees and complete enrollment formalities to confirm their admission.
Required Documents (Typical)
- Mark Sheets and Certificates (Bachelor's/Master's Degree)
- Character Certificate from the last institution
- Migration Certificate (if applicable)
- Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS), if applicable
- Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card, Passport, etc.)
- Passport-size Photographs
- Research Proposal (if required for the specific course)
Lectures & Seminars
KPJRI is a hub of academic activity, regularly organizing lectures and seminars that attract academics and interested non-professionals alike.
Memorial Lecture
An annual lecture series in memory of K. P. Jayaswal is organized on Nov 27-28. Inaugurated by D.C. Sircar, this series has featured eminent scholars like Prof. Romila Thapar, R.S. Sharma, Bipin Chandra, and Prof. K.M. Panikkar. These lectures are published as monographs.
Know Your Heritage Series
This popular series organizes lectures on diverse themes pertaining to the history and culture of Bihar, including music, dance, monuments, religion, art, architecture, and literature, engaging students and citizens of Patna.
Regular Seminars
The institute organizes seminars on core historical themes, the proceedings of which are published. Recent publications include 'History of Science and Technology' and 'History of Ideas in Bihar through Centuries' in the institute's journal, Prajñā-Bhārti.
Programmes & Research
Certificate Courses
| Programme Name | Details | Intake / Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Course in Research Methodology | Aims to initiate young research scholars into the principles and techniques of research in history and archaeology, including historiography, footnoting, and referencing. | Popular with research aspirants and professionals. Please contact the institute for intake and eligibility criteria. |
Research & Publications
The institute is a premier center for post-doctoral and independent research in history and Indology. It regularly publishes monographs and its research journal, Prajñā Bhārtī. To date, it has brought out 134 volumes, including 'The Comprehensive History of Bihar' and 'The Antiquarian Remains in Bihar'.
Fee Structure
Fee Information
Note: Specific fee data for courses and library access is not publicly available. As a government research institute, fees are typically nominal. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee structure, please contact the institute's office directly.
Interested in Our Courses?
For details on upcoming courses, admission procedures, and research opportunities, please visit the official institute website or contact the office directly.
Visit KPJRI Official WebsiteLibrary & Resources
A Hub for Scholars
The institute maintains a well-equipped library with approximately 15,000 books and journals on history and Indology, in addition to 1,185 manuscripts in Sanskrit, Persian, and Hindi. The library is open to scholars and students with prior permission from the Director.
Learn More About Our LibraryWhy Choose KPJRI?
KPJRI stands as a unique institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Bihar and India, offering unparalleled opportunities for researchers.
Prestigious Lineage
Study at an institute named after the eminent nationalist historian, Dr. K.P. Jayaswal, continuing his legacy of rigorous, patriotic scholarship.
Groundbreaking Research
Be associated with an institute that pioneered key excavations at Kumrahar and famously discovered the Buddha's relic casket at Vaishali.
Massive Archival Work
Gain access to a vast database of research, as the institute has explored and documented over 7,000 antiquarian sites across 30 districts of Bihar.
Unique Publications
Benefit from a rich history of publication, including 'The Comprehensive History of Bihar' and the institute's own research journal, 'Prajñā Bhārtī'.
Specialized Training
Acquire practical research skills through the 'Certificate Course in Research Methodology', designed for aspiring historians and archaeologists.
Contact & Location
Institute Details
- Address: K.P. Jayaswal Research Institute, Patna Museum Building, Buddha Marg, Patna, Bihar - 800001
- Working Hours: 10:30 AM - 4:30 PM (On all working days)
- Website: kpjri.res.in
- Email: Please use the contact form or details on the official website.