Who was the nationalist educationist and leader who founded Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi?

Introduction / Context:
Banaras Hindu University, commonly known as BHU, is one of the largest and most prestigious residential universities in Asia. It was founded during the freedom struggle with the aim of blending modern education with Indian cultural and spiritual values. The university is closely associated with a prominent nationalist leader and educationist. This question asks you to identify that founder.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The institution mentioned is Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi.
• The options include Sukumar Dutt, Madan Mohan Malaviya, Dr Rajendra Prasad, and Motilal Nehru.
• You must select the person historically recognised as the founder of BHU.

Concept / Approach:
Madan Mohan Malaviya was a leading nationalist figure, educationist, and social reformer who played an instrumental role in establishing BHU in the early twentieth century. He envisioned an institution that would offer modern higher education rooted in Indian culture and tradition. While Dr Rajendra Prasad later became the first President of India, Motilal Nehru was a political leader and lawyer, and Sukumar Dutt is not associated with BHU founding in standard histories. Therefore, Malaviya is the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that BHU was founded in the early twentieth century as a major centre of higher learning in Varanasi. Step 2: Recognise that Madan Mohan Malaviya is widely celebrated as the guiding force behind its establishment, mobilising support and resources. Step 3: Dr Rajendra Prasad, though a prominent leader and later President, is not named as the founder of this university. Step 4: Motilal Nehru was an influential lawyer and Congress leader, but he did not establish BHU. Step 5: Therefore, only Madan Mohan Malaviya among the options is correctly linked with the founding of Banaras Hindu University.

Verification / Alternative check:
University histories, official BHU publications, and exam guides all explicitly refer to Madan Mohan Malaviya as the founder of BHU. He is often portrayed in statues and commemorations on the campus. His educational vision and role in raising funds for the institution are widely recorded. The absence of similar recognition for the other names listed in connection with BHU confirms that Malaviya is the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Sukumar Dutt: This name is not associated with the founding of BHU in standard references to Indian educational history.

Dr Rajendra Prasad: He was an important Congress leader and later President of India, but he did not establish BHU.
Motilal Nehru: Although he was part of the national movement and a senior Congress figure, there is no record of him founding this university.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes learners confuse different institutions and their founders, especially when multiple national leaders championed education. Another pitfall is misremembering Malaviya role because his name may appear alongside other leaders in narratives about nationalist education. To avoid this, clearly connect BHU with Madan Mohan Malaviya in your mind and recall that he is frequently titled Mahamana in recognition of his contributions.

Final Answer:
Banaras Hindu University was founded by the nationalist leader Madan Mohan Malaviya.