Ganganath Jha Biography 
Ganganath Jha was an eminent scholar of Sanskrit language who lived during the period 25 December 1872 – 9 November 1941. A scholar of Indian Philosophy and Buddhist Philosophy as well, he was also a Pandit of Nyaya Shastra and has authored, edited and translated several books. He is also a recipient of several honours and awards including D. Litt in 1900, Mahamahopadhyaya in 1901, Knight Bachelor -1941 Birthday Honours List, Honorary Member of Royal Asiatic Society London, Member of Council of State (1920–1923) and many others. He served as the vice-chancellor of University of Allahabad during 1923–32. The University established the Ganganath Jha Hostel in his honour.
He was born in Sarisab Pahi village of Madhubani district of Bihar. He first learnt Persian script before the family moved to Banaras, when he was seven years old. But later in 1880 he returned back to Bihar to his relatives where he completed his English education. Once again in 1886 he returned to Banaras. He completed Masters’ in Sanskrit in 1892 where he stood as first rank holder. After a brief period as librarian in Darbhanga state at the age of 24, he took teaching as his profession.
In 1902, he became a Professor of Sanskrit at Muir College in Prayag, where he worked for long 16 years. In 1918 he was appointed as the Principal of Government Sanskrit College in Banaras, the first Indian to receive this recognition in British India. He also served as a member of the Council of State in the Central British Government during the period 1920–1923 and later appointed as vice-chancellor of University of Allahabad, where he worked for about one decade. He passed away in Allahabad on 9 November 1941.
Published: N/A
Updated: January 19, 2016
