History of Indian Higher Education – First Indian Universities in 1857 In 1857, India saw the establishment of its first modern universities. According to conventional exam references, which city is typically cited as hosting one of these first universities?

Introduction / Context:
Modern higher education in India began with the establishment of the Universities of Calcutta, Bombay, and Madras in 1857. Competitive exams often test recognition of these foundational institutions and the cities associated with them.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The year is 1857, and the focus is first Indian universities.
• The options mix correct and incorrect locations.
• We select the city that standard GK keys most commonly highlight.

Concept / Approach:
Among the trio—Calcutta (Kolkata), Bombay (Mumbai), and Madras (Chennai)—exam questions frequently single out Calcutta (now Kolkata) as an emblematic answer when only one is required, since it is often listed first in narratives of Indian university history.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Introductory histories of Indian higher education invariably list these three universities, with Calcutta frequently discussed first, supporting the choice of “Kolkata.”

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Chennai / Mumbai: They are correct cities for 1857 universities but the question expects one city; conventional single-answer GK often highlights Kolkata.
• Bihar: Not part of the original 1857 trio.

Common Pitfalls:
Overthinking the trio and missing that the MCQ seeks one representative city; many keys choose Kolkata.

Final Answer:
Kolkata