Bareilly: The Department of Ancient History and Culture at Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University organized an educational excursion to the historic archaeological site of Sankisa in Farrukhabad on February 26, 2026. The visit was undertaken by research scholars and postgraduate (M.A. final year) students under the patronage of Vice-Chancellor Professor K.P. Singh and the guidance of Head of Department Dr. Priya Saxena.
During the tour, students closely examined the Buddhist stupa, remnants of the Ashokan pillar, and other ancient archaeological structures at the site. Faculty members elaborated on the historical importance of Sankisa, particularly its association with Gautama Buddha and the traditional belief of his descent from the Trayastrimsha heaven.
Addressing the students, Dr. Priya Saxena emphasized that such academic visits significantly enhance historical understanding, analytical ability, and research skills. Dr. Pawan Kumar Singh highlighted key events from the life of Gautama Buddha, including his birth, enlightenment, first sermon, and Mahaparinirvana. Archaeologist Dr. Anoop Mishra provided detailed insights into the excavation findings and the historical background of unearthed structures and artifacts.
Students received practical and academic knowledge about the architectural features of the Buddhist monastery, pottery remains discovered during excavations, and Sankisa’s role in the spread of Buddhism. The primary objective of the visit was to complement classroom learning with on-site observation, thereby strengthening students’ research perspectives.
Dean Professor Vijay Bahadur Singh Yadav extended his best wishes to the participants and described the tour as highly informative and inspiring. The successful organization of the visit was supported by committee members Dr. Pinki Gupta, Dr. Alok Kumar, Mohit Mishra, Hori Lal, Rajeev Yadav, and Munish Sahu.
At the conclusion of the tour, students and faculty collectively pledged to contribute towards the preservation and promotion of India’s rich historical heritage.
Report by Akhilesh Chandra Saxena from Bareilly.
