Foundation day of Indian Institute of Advanced Study observed

The 56th foundation day of the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) was observed by paying homage to the founders. It was the vision of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, former President of India which led to the setting of IIAS in Shimla.

Shimla: Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) celebrated its 56th Foundation Day on Monday. Due to COVID-19, no special event was organised at the institute and the day was commemorated by paying homage to its founders.

The idea of ​​setting up the institute was to create and encourage an environment for humanities and social studies.

IIAS is located in the Chauda Maidan in the capital city of Shimla. Before the independence of India, this building was used as the Viceregal’s Lodge i.e. the residence of the President.

The building was constructed in 1884

This building was constructed in 1884. The building was constructed in Scottish Baronial style at a cost of Rs. 38 lakhs. The construction of this building was completed in four years. A mixed construction style is also seen at some sections of the building, while teak wood was brought from Burma for its interior decoration. The building has 120 rooms.

The building was used as the residence of the then Viceroy of British India and after independence, this building was used as the residence of the President. Educationist and former President of India Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan realised that the magnificent building should be converted into an institution for research and higher studies, imparting a distinct identity around the world.

Established on October 20, 1965, as Center for Higher Studies

The institute's society was registered on October 6, 1964, to convert it into a centre for higher studies, and on October 20, 1965, the Indian Institute of Higher Studies was established. After the independence of India, it was late Dr Radhakrishnan’s foresight which turned the building into an institution of higher studies in which new dimensions of research are being established today.

Aung San Suu Kyi had completed the book here

Myanmar's State Counsellor and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi is a Fellow at the Indian Institute of Higher Studies.

The Indian Institute of Advanced Study is also known as a famous tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. Millions of tourists including international visitors arrive here every year to see the grand architecture and natural beauty that surrounds it.